Eddie Rucker Jr.

Eddie Rucker Jr., a 99-year-old legend in our community, WWII Army Veteran and Buffalo Soldier, son of sharecroppers, peacefully passed away at his home with his family.

Eddie was born June 25, 1920, in Sidon, MS.  to Eddie and Blanche (Webb) Rucker. He was the third of six children. His mother, father, one brother (Charlie), three sisters (Inez, Viola, Mattie Lee, and Beatrice) all preceded him in death.

Eddie married Annie Louise Forest in 1942 in Portageville, MO. and they were blessed with 5 children (Arthur, Linda, Patricia, Elaine, and Christopher). They were married for 61 years until her passing in 2003.

Eddie served his country in the US Army during WWII in 1942 and was proud to be a Buffalo Soldier. He was honorably discharged in 1945. Following his discharge, he moved his family to Michigan in search of a better life.

Eddie knew the value of hard work and this is what he tried to instill in his children. He worked 2 jobs and retired from Auto Specialties Mfg Company after 35 years and Ferguson Welding and Supply Company after 25 years.

Eddie accepted Christ as his Savior and was baptized at Progressive Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Dr. Daniel E. Cook.

Eddie enjoyed walking around the city and sitting on his front steps talking to people as they passed by. He loved having fish fry’s and spending time with his family. He would share military stories with his grandson Ryan, who is currently in the US Air Force, talking about what it was like when he was in the military versus now. Eddie would always end up saying “I been through a lot”.

Eddie leaves precious memories in the hearts of his devoted children, daughters; Linda Wooden, Patricia (Lawrence) Eddie both of Benton Harbor, Elaine Herrion of Kalamazoo. Daughter in Law Jacquelyn Rucker of Mishawaka, IN, and Sister in Law Turesia Bowman. Sons: Arthur Rucker of Kalamazoo, Raymond Chappell Sr of Benton Harbor. Brother in Law Eddie Forest of Benton Harbor. 9 Grandchildren: Ronald, Tammie, Tonya, Ebon, 

Kenyatta, NeQuan, Ryan, Christopher B., and Jillian. 11 Great-Grandchildren, 8 Great-Great Grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends.

Eddie was also preceded in death by his wife Annie Louise and son Christopher Rucker.

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