Mary Tucker

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

Mary Jewell (Smith) Tucker was born May 28, 1924, in Diamond, Missouri to the late Garner and Helen Smith. She passed away Tuesday, September 26, 2023. 

She married Kenneth L. Tucker on October 12, 1941. He proceeded her in death on January 9, 2015. She was also preceded in death by their infant daughter, Joyce Jeanette Tucker and son, Russell Scott Tucker. 

She is survived by her son, G.L. Tucker and his wife Lora Tucker of Joplin, granddaughters Shayel Tucker Huntzicker and husband, Bill of Bentonville, Arkansas and Averi Tucker of Joplin. She has four great-grandchildren Brantly Gossett, Layne Gossett, Jalyn Huntzicker and Ava Huntzicker. As well as two great-great grandchildren, Aspen Gossett and Leighton Danner.

Mary loved to sing and was active in her church, serving in the choir and singing with a women's quartet for many years along with volunteering for vacation Bible school. The family moved to Jasper, Missouri where she was a homemaker. 

While in Jasper, she was active in Parent Teacher Organization serving as treasurer then President. The family then moved to Neosho, where Mary started to serve 11 years on the board of the Newton County American Cancer board. 

In 1974, Mary and Ken moved to Joplin. She worked on the precinct election board for Stapleton elementary school in Joplin for 21 years. Additionally, she served on the staff for Missouri Girls State for 10 years and was very involved with the American Legion throughout the years, joining in 1948.

Mary will be laid to rest alongside her husband Kenneth, daughter Joyce and son Russell in a private family graveside service in Diamond on Thursday, September 28th. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to charity of choice. Arrangements are under the direction of Mason-Woodard Mortuary & Crematory.