James Rucker
October 26, 1948 - November 17, 2025
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James Rucker, of Covington, Kentucky, passed away peacefully on Monday, November 17, 2025, at St. Elizabeth Hospice Center in Edgewood, Kentucky at the age of 77. He was born on October 26, 1948, in Covington, Kentucky, the son of the late James and Viola Rucker, Sr. James was a man whose quiet strength and steadfast dedication shaped a life rich in purpose and compassion. He built a long and steady career at Johnson Controls, where he worked in the shipping department as a forklift operator. Over the course of 30 years, he became known not only for his hard work but for his reliability, humility, and the genuine kindness he extended to those around him. He retired with the respect and friendship of many. James' pride of his work extended to his home life as well. He was meticulous in the care and detailing of his vehicles. However, James's greatest joy was found in the simple but profound moments spent with his family. He cherished every gathering, every conversation, and every chance to be present with the people he loved most. To his family, he was a source of unwavering support, quiet wisdom, and deep affection. Preceding James in death were his parents, James and Viola Rucker, Sr. Those left surviving to carry on James' memory include his loving and devoted wife of 48 years, Deborrah "Debbie" Rucker; children, Jermaine (Lynette) Haynes, Amber (Adam Bennett) Rucker, Sharla Rucker and Brian (Tamieka) Rucker; sister, Juanita Summerlin; grandchildren, Elijah, Brielle (Ibn), Hypatia, Lillian, Aubrie and Logan James "LJ"; great-granddaughter, Scarlet; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends who are now emptier upon his passing. A visitation celebrating James' life will take place from 9:00 AM until 11:00 AM on Monday November 24, 2025 at Connley Brothers Funeral Home, 11 East Southern Avenue, Latonia, Kentucky 41015. A funeral service will immediately follow at 11:00 AM at the funeral home. James will then be laid peacefully to rest at Forest Lawn Memorial Park Cemetery, 3227 Dixie Highway, Erlanger, Kentucky 41018. In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy in James' name may be made to St. Elizabeth Hospice, 1 Medical Village Drive, Edgewood, Kentucky 41017. Connley Brothers Funeral Home, Covington (Latonia), KY 41015 is serving the family. Online condolences may be expressed on Facebook or at www.connleybrothersfuneralhome.com.
Condolences
Robert Humphries - Nov 23, 2025
I would like to extend my prayers and condolences to the family of James Rucker Jr. He was one of the best Cross Country and Mile Runner in the State while attending Holmes High School!! To all that knew him and see him run , know that you never in your life time see anyone run those 2 race’s better then James!! James was so humbled and helpful to those whose path he had crossed! May God Strengthen his wife, children and all his relatives every second, minute, hour, day, week, month and year’s to come 🙏🏿 Robert Humphries and the Humphries family from West 10th Street COV.KY🙏🏿🙏🏿🙏🏿
Okosa Family - Nov 21, 2025
The Okosa Family extends their deepest condolences and sympathy to the Haynes and Rucker's families. May the peace of God rest upon all concerned. Psalms 34:18 We will continue to keep you in our prayers.
Erica Merritt - Nov 19, 2025
My uncle was the best man I know. He love his family and friends. We had Sunday dinners every month and when my sister would cook he would always say done Valerie I’m hungry when the food gonna be done he said this every time she cooked. Every milestone in my life he was right there to cheer me on or cry with me. My uncle always made sure me and my siblings had birthday and Christmas gifts. This man was my hero and I respected him so much the love I have for him no one could ever get that close to me. I’m glad there’s no more pain but I hate I had to lose him. My heart may heal but my soul never will. Until me meet again. Your niece Erica
Hicks Family - Nov 19, 2025
Our prayers to Jesus for your family,and condolences of peace and love. We thank God for the life of Mr.Rucker. He was always smiling, loving, and encouraging whenever my family was blessed to be around him and his family. May God continually bless and strengthen the Rucker family. Love, the Hicks family
Donald Fann - Nov 19, 2025
My condolences to Family and Friends with God’s Continued Blessings to wonderful individual who gave me great advice when I first arrived at Holmes High School as a freshman. James was a star athlete in the marathon and long distance running may his Memories and Legacy Always be Remembered!!!!
Michael Monroe - Nov 18, 2025
Family, so sorry for your loss, condolences and prayers. Rest peacefully my old neighborhood friend.
Cineus Family - Nov 18, 2025
We send our hugs,prayers,and sincere condolences. It was a honor to meet & know Mr.Rucker, we pray that the Holy Spirit would not only comfort your family through this time but we prayerfully ask that His presence would surround & overtake each one of you daily in the days to come, meeting you at the point of your need. Praying that you are comforted in the night seasons. Encouraged through the tears & brought closer to Him & one another. May sharing memories of a Man of Honor bring you peace🕊️- May his soul and spirit rest well with Our Father, in Jesus Name🙏🏾🫂🌈🫶🏾 God Bless You
Lindsey Seybold - Nov 18, 2025
Prayers to your family. James was a wonderful man. He will be missed dearly.
