William Gayle "Bill" Rucker

William Gayle Rucker 80, of Rushville, IL passed away Friday, March 28, 2025 at his home. Bill was born on January 6, 1945 in Hayes, KS the son of the late William and Florence Loree Mickelson Rucker. He married Betty Palmer on March 21, 1970 at the Little White Church in Melrose Park, IL. She survives along with (4) children Kassandra Lynn Cline & David of Albion, IL, Destini Marie McFall & Wayne of Statham, GA, Donald Curtis Rucker & Jordan of Vienna, VA, Chad Michael Rucker & Melissa; (10) Grandchildren Jillian, Alyssa, Kaelen, Andy, Billy, Patricia, Logan, Curtis, Kylee, Ayden,; (3) great-grandchildren Charlotte, Chase, and Bellamy; (1) Sister Patricia Reed & Partner Jane Frost of Cape Cod, MA. He was preceded in death by (1) sister Francis Loree Rucker Pierce. Bill attended several universities including Fort Hayes State, Ohio State Elmhurst, Free Port Jr. College, Northern Illinois, and Northwestern Theological Seminary. He served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War afterword he married his wife Betty and started their family. He taught and coached for several years and was called to minister in 1971 serving several churches including Albion, Marion and Rushville. He served as the Director of activities at Sharps Park in Melrose Park, mayor of Albion and several other positions throughout the years. Bill enjoyed playing cards, golf, attending any kind of sporting event, he enjoyed visiting with people and especially telling bad jokes, and he liked to play "Daniel Boon", where he would take a short cut while driving not necessarily on the road that would cause the trip to extend a couple of hours. Bill was a family man he loved spending time with his wife, children and especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. A memorial service will be held at a later date.