Vertice Eugene Tucker entered into eternal rest Saturday, Oct. 15, 2016, at the age of 84. He was born to Val Duncan Tucker and Hazel Emily Thomas Tucker Oct. 22, 1931.

Eugene grew up on a farm in Jet and enjoyed taking care of his farm animals. He actively participated in every sport.

He attended schools in Jet and graduated with a Masters in Education from NWOSU. After serving in the U.S. Army, he came back to Jet to assist his father on the farm. In addition to helping his father, he continued to pursue his career in teaching.

Eugene taught Industrial Arts and Driver's Education. He also coached at Cherokee Junior and High School in football, track, and basketball. Eugene actively participated in football practice to encourage his players.

While teaching at Cherokee, he met the love of his life, Betty Lou Fillingham. They were married on July 6, 1964, and were married for 52 wonderful years.

Eugene and Betty were blessed with the birth of two daughters and four grandchildren. Eugene always put his family first and made his family feel loved by his devotion.

His love for outdoor activities continued through his life, as he made time to go fishing, boating, golfing, grilling, and picnicking with family and friends.

Eugene also enjoyed wood working and he continually made presents for friends and neighbors. He actively operated the family farm until age 80, and he continued to assist at the farm with daily chores.

Those preceding Eugene in death are his parents, and his brother, Val Duncan Tucker Jr.

Survivors include his wife, Betty Tucker, of Jet; his two daughters, Anita Tucker Jordan and husband, Ken Jordan, of Jet; and Angela Tucker Rouege and husband, William Rouege, of Cedar Park, Texas.

Additional family members include his older brother, Eddie Bill Tucker, of Jet; four grandchildren, Hunter and Hope Jordan; and Liam and Alex Rouege; cousins, Roberta Patton, of Enid; and Jim and Rose Lambert, of California; as well as several sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces and nephews.

Eugene was always known for his quick wit, sense of humor, strong work ethic and knowing that every day is a good day.

The funeral service is 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 20, 2016, at Jet United Methodist Church. Burial follows in Pleasant View Cemetery.

Viewing is 10 a.m.-7 p.m. today, Oct. 19, 2016, with family present 5-7 p.m., at Lanman Funeral Home, Inc. in Cherokee. Condolences may be made at www.LanmanMemorials.com.

Memorials may be made to the Jet Fire Department, or Stamp Out Hunger of Cherokee, through the funeral home.

Arrangements are by Lanman Funeral Home, Inc., Cherokee.