Thomas Jefferson Rucker Jr.  was born May 1, 1948 in Denison Texas to the best parents ever, Mr. Thomas J. Rucker Sr.  a cattleman and Mrs. Lois E. Rucker a school teacher. He received degrees from Terrell High School in Denison TX and Southeastern Oklahoma State University where he received a bachelor's degree in Business Administration. What the Businessman he evolved to be!

In the summer of 1967 Rucker enlisted 4 years in the United States Marine Corps in the buddy deal with his cousin James E. Edmondson from Denison TX.  They were stationed at Camp Pendleton in San Diego California for their basic training. Rucker often reminisced when he arrived on base that the Sargent said "you had a good home but you left it, now you belong to the USMC!".

After arriving on base at 1 a.m. Rucker had to run 10 miles at 3 p.m. and everyone was stopping except the man in front of him. That is when he developed the motto: "If he can do it, I can do it," and that is how he finished the race.

Rucker was classified as a 0311 Infantry Rifleman which is a very versatile MOS, when in war he was on the front lines fighting for his country-the United States of America.

As a member of the 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Division, Rucker fought on the front line in Dong Ha, the III Marine Expeditionary Force was​​ Based in Okinawa, Japan.  Rucker received 4- Purple Heart Medals-he was shot in the line of duty, while in active warfare. While waiting to be airlifted to U.S. territory for rest and recreation due to being shot. After his extensive injuries while fighting the Vietnam War, Rucker was given a Honorable Discharge and was the Recipient of the following medals-Purple Heart, Rifle Sharpshooter, Good Conduct, Vietnam Service, Vietnam Campaign, and National Defense.

Thomas loved spending time with his family creating awesome memories, cooking, eating, calling all his kids and grandkids multiple times a day, and acting silly.  During the Thanksgiving holiday season Rucker has feed the Community in Denison TX for last 46 years. It was important that he gave back and volunteered in his home town.

Mr. Rucker is a lifetime member of Quinn Chapel A.M.E Church, where he has served on the Stewart board, usher board. An honorary member of Hopewell Baptist Church. He is the CEO/Business Owner of TnT Youth Organization, TnT Barbecue, and TnT Car Care. Organizations-Denison High School Booster Club President, NFL Agent, Pony League Coach, Cattleman

Left to Cherish Thomas's memories are his loving wife- Nancy Castillio Rucker, Sister- Dr. Zandra Rucker, Children-Tangee Rucker (Cliff), Tamra Rucker, Thomas Rucker III, Taurus Rucker, Tifney Wyatt, Ian Wyatt (Jennifer), Deone Smith, Celestine Marshall. Grandchildren-Trent Brown, Brian Lilly, Mykel Brown, Tristan Brown, Taivian Rucker, Thomas Rucker IV, Noah Honesty, Brooklyn Brown, Taylla Rucker, Tyrzah Stinson, Taylee Stinson, Alicia Smith, Lamontre Smith, McShane Wyatt, Plae Wyatt, Wyatt King, Flight Wyatt, Deja Rucker, Lexy Smith, and Jake Means. A host of loving cousins.

Thomas J. Rucker, Jr., age 75, of Denison, ascended to his eternal home Saturday, October 21, 2023, at his residence following an extended illness.

A public visitation will be on Friday, October 27th from 1 P.M. to 7 P.M. at Waldo Funeral Home in Sherman.  The family will be present to receive friends beginning at 5 P.M.

The funeral service will be Saturday, October 28th at 11 A.M. at Trinity Lighthouse Church, 2915 Spur 503, Denison, Rev. Raymond England is the Host Pastor and Rev. C.E. Evans will deliver the eulogy.  Burial will follow at Fairview Cemetery, Denison.  The church will be streaming the service from their website.

Arrangements have been entrusted to James E. Smith and the professionals of Waldo Funeral Home.  You may sign the online guestbook at waldofuneralhome.com.