Evelyn Ruth Tucker

Evelyn Ruth Tucker (fondly known by many as RuRu, Tuck, or Baby Ruth), beloved daughter, teacher, and friend, passed peacefully on August 31, 2025, at the age of 96.

Born on June 23, 1929, in Union, South Carolina, Evelyn was the daughter of the late Coleman H. and Clara Turner Tucker. She graduated from Union High School in 1946 and went on to earn her Bachelor of Arts degree from Limestone College in 1951. While at Limestone, she was a proud member of the honorary sorority Alpha Delta Kappa.

Evelyn dedicated her life to teaching and caring for others. She spent her career shaping young lives at Woodhill Elementary School for Gaston County School District (N.C.), where she was known for her patience, kindness, and steady devotion to her students. She was a member of the North Carolina Association of Educators, and active member of the NC Retired Teachers Association. Evelyn was also a devoted Christian and lifelong member of Unity United Methodist Church (Union, SC), where she faithfully taught children's Sunday school for decades. Generations of children remember not only her gentle lessons of faith, but also the snack bags she always had ready for them.

Evelyn was the last of her cherished circle of closest friends, "The Golden Girls," a group of girlfriends who shared a lifetime of joy, laughter, and memories together. To her family, she was a source of constant love and encouragement. She was predeceased by several beloved family members, including Monty G. Smith, Betty S. Nave, and Ramona S. Robinson. Evelyn is survived by many special cousins, including John (Peggy) Smith and Ann (Wayne, deceased) Hyatt. She shared a special bond with Annie Smith and Sally Smith Taylor, who cared for her deeply, looked after her in her final years, and loved her as their grandmother. The light of her life was her namesake, Evelyn Taylor, daughter of Sally, with whom she shared an especially joyful and treasured relationship.

Evelyn's life was a beautiful example of faith, devotion, and love. She will be remembered for her gentle spirit, her smile that brightened the room, and her lifelong commitment to caring for others.

The family would like to express their heartfelt appreciation to her caregivers, especially Ashley Brown, along with the dedicated nurses and staff of Union Post Acute and Union Medical, for their compassionate care and support.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, September 3, at 11:00 a.m. at S.R. Holcombe Funeral Chapel conducted by Mr. Alex Hanvey. A burial will follow at Union Memorial Gardens, with visitation immediately afterward.

Active pallbearers will be Ben Hyatt, Dawson Hyatt, Ken Branham, and Josh Prather. Honorary pallbearers will be Roger Hyatt, Johnny Smith, Dennis Nix, Dean Robinson, Justin Ham, and Avery Hyatt.

In honor of their care and devotion, the family asks that Evelyn's nurses and caregivers sit together during the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Union Animal Shelter, 200 W. Main Street, Union, SC or to Union Meals on Wheels, P.O. Box 951, Union, SC.