Willie Muriel Tucker

Mrs. Willie Muriel Esters Tucker Sunrise: December 15, 1934 | Sunset: October 26, 2025 Mrs. Willie Muriel Esters Tucker passed away peacefully in her sleep on Sunday, October 26, 2025, at the age of 90, surrounded by the love of her family.

Born on December 15, 1934, in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, Willie was the fourth of ten children born to the late Wilbur and Willie Mae Wilson Esters. She always held dear the memories of her parents and her maternal grandparents, Albert and Captolia Hails Wilson, whose guidance and affection she carried with her throughout her life. Growing up in a loving, faith-filled home, Willie was an active member of Truelight Missionary Baptist Church during her formative years. She received her early education in Hattiesburg and graduated from Royal Street High School in 1953.

Shortly after graduation, Willie moved to Chicago, Illinois, where she met and married Andrew "Andy" Tucker, an Alabama native. Together, they began a new life and were blessed with two children, Reggie and Diane. To Andy, she was affectionately known as Muriel.

Willie's life was characterized by gentle strength, faith, quiet grace, and being generous with her time, resources, and spirit. She often expressed her love through thoughtful deeds, whether ensuring her home was stocked with her beloved granddaughter's favorite foods, toys, and games for their cherished weekend visits, or lending a helpful hand and listening ear to family and neighbors. Willie was delighted by children and dogs, particularly her Collie, King. She found joy in simple pleasures, such as savoring an ice-cold Pepsi and a bag of banana Laffy Taffy candy, opening all the windows and playing gospel music while cleaning her home on Sunday mornings, and watching soap operas and game shows on TV. Known for her kindness, compassion, quick wit, and sharp sense of humor, she had a way of lifting spirits, making her a treasured presence in the lives of all who knew her.

Professionally, Willie spent many years working for Illinois Bell Telephone Company, where she was admired for her professionalism, warmth, and dependability. She earned her Associate's Degree in 1995 from Malcolm X College in Chicago and pursued an interest in early childhood development. After retiring, she devoted her time to caring for her family and home - roles that she treasured deeply.

In her final years, Willie received devoted and unwavering care. Her full-time needs were tirelessly met by her daughter, Diane, who was supported by the expertise of

Willie's dedicated home health aide, Ms. Tilly, whose presence provided great comfort and stability.

On October 26, 2025, she was welcomed into her heavenly home by her beloved parents, her two brothers, Wilbur Laverne Esters and Albert Odell Esters; and three sisters, Mary Annette Esters, Johnnie Beatrice Esters Rogers, and Lessie Mae Esters Burton.

Those left to cherish and celebrate her life include her husband, Andrew Tucker of South Holland, Illinois; her children, Reginald (Valencia) Tucker of Chicago, Illinois, and Diane Tucker Moran of South Holland, Illinois; and her granddaughter, Porcshe (Patrick) Murphy of California, Missouri. She is also survived by two brothers, James Wilson Esters of Alton, Illinois, and Robert Carl Esters of Hattiesburg, Mississippi; two sisters, Ora C. Esters of Stone Mountain, Georgia, and Tommie (Bill) Esters Farmer of Hattiesburg, Mississippi; along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends who will forever remember her with love and admiration.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Lain-Sullivan Funeral Directors and Peace and Paradise Crematory. Following cremation, her earthly remains will be laid to rest at Assumption Cemetery in Glenwood, Illinois, where she will rest in eternal peace and in the loving presence of the Lord.