Roosevelt Tucker, Jr.

On December 8, 2025, Roosevelt Tucker, Jr. passed away peacefully in his home, surrounded by his family. Roosevelt, Jr. (Junior)was born on March 31, 1935, in Fayetteville, NC, to Roosevelt Tucker, Sr. and Mildred (Gardner) Tucker. He was the second of seven children born to this union. At age two, the family left Fayetteville and moved to Greenwich, CT, and shortly thereafter settled in Port Chester, NY, where he spent the remainder of his youth. Roosevelt graduated from Port Chester High School in 1953 and went on to attend New York University, where he was a member of the ROTC. He majored in English and graduated in 1957. Following graduation, he enlisted in the United States Army, serving as a First Lieutenant and Infantry Unit Commander. He served on active duty for two years and was honorably discharged in 1959 and served in the Army Reserves until 1964. After his military service, Roosevelt spent 34 years as an insurance claims adjuster, where he used his analytical skills, sense of justice, and desire to help others. While stationed at Fort Knox, KY, Roosevelt—affectionately known as “Tucker”—met the love of his life, Phyllis (Phil), in 1958. They were married on July 23, 1960, and in November 1961, they moved to Chicago, Illinois, where they built their life together for more than six decades. They shared 65 years of marriage, raising four children—Regina, Carolyn, Gregory, and Kimberly—as well as two “bonus daughters,” Rayetta and Michelle, whom they welcomed into their home during their teenage years. Tucker was known as an honest and forthright man who loved the Lord and cared deeply for all of God’s creation. A lifelong dog lover, he had a gentle and compassionate way with animals. He was blessed with many athletic, creative, and musical talents. An avid handball player, he also enjoyed archery—often using the beautifully sculpted bows he handcrafted himself. His keen attention to detail allowed him to excel in drawing, painting, sculpting, photography, and numerous home-improvement projects. Rarely without a camera, he spent countless hours capturing and documenting cherished family moments. Tucker also had a passion for music and was a gifted singer and guitarist. In later years at Smith Village, he became a regular participant in open mic nights and talent shows, where his voice and warm spirit brought joy to residents and staff alike. As a child, Roosevelt attended Bethesda Baptist Church in Port Chester. As an adult living in Chicago, he was a longtime member of Holy Name of Mary Church, where he served faithfully as an usher. Later in life, he became an active member of New Hope Fellowship until his struggle with dementia made attendance difficult. Despite these challenges, his faith, love, and devotion—to the Lord and to his family—remained central to his life until the very end. Roosevelt “Tucker” will be fondly remembered for his godly example of obedience, gratitude, humility, and sacrificial love for family and others. He will be dearly missed by all who knew him. He is survived by his devoted wife, Phyllis; one son and three daughters; seven grandchildren; one great-grandchild; his aunt, Allean Gardner; his sister, Adrienne Troupe; his sister-in-law, Sandra Morrison; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Roosevelt was preceded in death by his parents, Mildred and Roosevelt Tucker, Sr.; his sister, Rose; his brothers, Price, Carlton, Russell, and Kevin; and his granddaughter, Angela Renée. In lieu of flowers for Roosevelt Tucker, Jr. , donations can be made to the Agape Center either online at: https://give.cru.org/2270496 Via check payable to: Cru (Campus Crusade for Christ) In the Memo section indicate: "For: Agape Center” Mail checks to: Agape Center 342 W 111th St Chicago, IL 60628

Roosevelt Tucker, Jr.

March 31, 1935 - December 8, 2025