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Eldred Austin Tucker

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Long time educator Eldred Austin Tucker, age 90, passed away Friday August 28, 2009.  Born April 9, 1919 in the Blakeville community, he was a son of Edd and Mollie Owen Tucker.  Beginning in October 1942, Mr. Tucker began 2 years of distinguished service with the US Army during World War II.  As a lieutenant, he received the Purple Heart and bronze star for heroic achievement in Germany.  Later, he was promoted to the rank of Captain.  After his honorable discharge from the Army, he returned to college.  Mr. Tucker completed his bachelor’s degree from TN Tech in Cookeville in May of 1948.  The following month, he married Marie Bryant of Blakeville.  His career in education began in 1948 as a teacher and coach at Boonshill High School.  In 1953, Mr. Tucker was selected as the principal of Eighth District Elementary, now Stone Bridge Academy.  He completed his education in 1956, receiving his master’s degree from Murfreesboro’s Middle TN State University.  Mr. Tucker’s career in education culminated in his election as Lincoln County School Superintendant in 1980.  He retired in 1984 after 36 years of service in the education field.  Other achievements include commander of American Legion post 42, president of the Civitans Club, president of Retired Teachers Association, Lincoln County economic development director, chairman of Lincoln County Red Cross, and elder and teacher at Cyruston Church of Christ.

He is survived by his dedicated wife of 61 years, Marie Bryant Tucker, two children Sherri Tucker Haislip (Ricky) of Fayetteville and Eddie Wayne Tucker of Pulaski, TN, two grandchildren Marisa Thornton and Carmen Posey, 1 great-grandchild Anna Marie Thornton of Fayetteville, and 1 brother Winford Tucker of Marshall County.  He was preceded in death by two sisters Jewel Bradford and Lynda Pigg.

Funeral Services for Mr. Eldred Austin Tucker will be conducted at 3 PM Sunday at Higgins Funeral Home with Bro. Don Wallace officiating.  Burial will follow in Riverview Memorial Gardens.  Visitation with the family will be from 1-3 PM Sunday at Higgins Funeral Home.