Wanda Tucker

TROUP — Wanda Blackwell Tucker, 86, of Troup, Texas entered into eternal rest, Friday October 25, 2024, in Tyler Texas. Wanda was born October 10, 1938, to the parentage of Archie Edmond Blackwell and Ruby Corrine Kleam Blackwell who resided in the Henry`s Chapel Community.

Wanda attended Carlisle Public Schools from which she graduated in 1956. She remained loyal to the school, participating in the many reunions in which she played a vital role. She was honored by the Carlisle Alumni to be placed in the “Wall of Fame” for her outstanding contribution to the school as well as the Alumni Association.

After her graduation from High School, she attended Tyler Junior College where she was selected as an Apache Belle serving for 2 years. It was said that Wanda “majored” in Apache Belles.

In 1952, Wanda met John Walter Tucker from Troup at the Carlisle Halloween Carnival and on August 27, 1959, they were married, even though from rival schools. From this union was born a son, J. Tracy Tucker.

1963 brought a move from Troup to Houston Texas where Wanda worked for Tom Baker Insurance Agency where she eventually became President of the company. Throughout her career in insurance, she was honored to be named the President of the Independent Insurance Women of Houston serving from 1977-1978.

Story goes about the nickname “Twisty” given to Wanda. While working at Johnson/Tucker Drug Store, she would wear Crinoline petticoats and as she was walking through the store her skirt twisted with all the petticoats and milk bottles would often be knocked to the floor………incurring a stern look from Mr. Claude L. Johnson.

Wanda was in her “heyday” when she entertained with parties, weddings, rehearsal dinners, graduation parties and school reunions. She was a great organizer, wonderful hostess and somewhat kind “boss” to those assisting her.

Wanda was a member of the Troup Methodist Church faithfully serving on the Finance Committee for many years.

She also was an active member of the Troup Women’s Civic Organization serving in various positions on the board and on May 24, 2016, was named “Woman of the Year.”

Additionally, Wanda was a member of the Smith County Area Go Texan organization which she along with her husband helped to raise money for scholarships for High School students.

Wanda was predeceased by her parents, Archie and Ruby, husband John Walter Tucker who died just 9 weeks ago on August 16, 2024.

Wanda is survived by her son J. Tracy Tucker of New York, New York, her brother Larry (Suzanne) Blackwell of Tyler, her nephews, Matt (Sarah) Blackwell and Luke (Ashley) Blackwell. She is also survived by her niece, Jennifer Blackwell. She also has a host of friends who will have cherished memories.

Graveside service will be Wednesday October 30, 2024, at 10 am, at the Pinecrest cemetery in Troup with the Memorial service to follow at 11 am, at the Troup Methodist Church. The Reverends Tommy Earl Burton and Jason Sutfin will serve as officiants. A viewing will be from 9 am to 4 pm, Tuesday, October 29, 2024, at Cottle Funeral Home, Troup.

Pallbearers will be Dennis Alexander, Gailon Johnston, Don Graham, Gary Hettenbach, Michael Bosworth, Lloyd Pierce, Jake Johnson, and Lane Quinney

If desired, donations made be made to the First Methodist Church 202 Duval Street, Troup Texas 75789 or to a charity of choice.

“DRESS CODE STRICKLY ENFORCED”