Jackie Rucker

Jackie Russell Rucker (Pfafftown), born August 16, 1953, to Russell Rucker and Annie Shelton Rucker, passed away peacefully on June 13, 2025, holding the hands of his children and surrounded by a room full of love and adoration.

Jackie was known for his big personality, bigger hugs, and stories. He never met a stranger—and loved entertaining. He retired from RJ Reynolds, but his true passions were between the woods and the water.

He shared his love of the outdoors with his son, Curtis and passed along his love of the coast and sense of humor to his daughter, Christina.

He loved fiercely and served as a guiding light—not just to his children, but to many others he helped raise into adulthood, and then again to their children. His granddaughter Allie held a special place in his heart, he left us all with memories to last a lifetime.

We have no doubt Jackie was welcomed at the Pearly Gates by the love of his life, Cheryl—his beloved wife of 37 years—on what would have been her birthday. After eleven long years apart, they are together again, rejoicing in the presence of the Lord.

Jackie is survived by his children, Curtis Rucker of Pfafftown and Christina (David) Bray of Walnut Cove , three grandchildren, Allie Holston, Dallas Bray, and Jessica Bray Thompson; five great-grandchildren; and many cherished nieces, nephews, and honorary family members.

His stories, his strength, and his spirit will live on in all who loved him. One-of-a-kind, full of heart, and always ready with a joke or a fishing pole or deer rifle—Jackie was, and always will be, unforgettable.

The family will receive friends at Huff Funeral Home (212 Main St., East Bend, NC 27018) on Tuesday, June 17, 2025 at 6:00-8:00pm. Celebration of Life and burial will take place at 11:00 am on Wednesday, June 18, 2025 at Grace Baptist Church (7795 Grapevine Rd., Lewisville, NC 27023). In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. 

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