Donald Gene Tucker, Jr.

“Tucker”

Age 68 of LaFeria, Texas and formerly of Wilmington, Illinois died unexpectedly on November 21, 2025 at his home in LaFeria.

Born September 1, 1957, in Joliet, Illinois, Donald Gene was the son of Donald Gene, Sr. and Marilyn Kay (Niehls) Tucker. He was raised in Wilmington before relocating with his family during his high school years to Miramar, Florida, where he completed his education and graduated from high school.

Following graduation, Tucker proudly answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Air Force. He honorably served as an Aircraft Environmental Systems Mechanic, applying his technical skills with dedication until receiving his honorable discharge.

Over the course of his career, Tucker was employed by the United States Postal Service, Fermilab in Aurora, Illinois, and later PCI in Wilmington.

Tucker embraced life with a wide variety of interests and hobbies. He had a lifelong passion for motorcycles and NASCAR, enjoyed spending time at the shooting range, and could often be found with a good book in hand. He also had a fascination with the space program and never missed the opportunity to watch a rocket launch. After relocating to South Texas in recent years, he found great enjoyment in the beauty and tranquility of South Padre Island, where he appreciated the coastal lifestyle.

Above all, Tucker will be remembered for his love of country, his independent spirit, and the pride he took in being an American. His memory will be cherished by those who knew and loved him.

Survivors include his wife, Janelle (nee Greenan) whom he married October 31, 2018; siblings: Kay Ann (Mike) Attaway and Susan Faye (Frank) Kiper, both of Wilmington; Bob (Rowie) Watson, Scott (Sandra) Watson and Stacia (John) Best; two uncles: Bert (Charlene) Niehls and Charlie Schumacher; his stepchildren: Donald Robert Norman, III, Christopher Wayne Norman and Jessica Renee Norman; brother-in-law, Cecil Greenan and sister-in-law, Donna (Kyle) Goetch and numerous nieces and nephews.

Tucker was preceded in death by his parents.

Cremation rites have been accorded.

Family and friends are invited to assemble at Baskerville Funeral Home, 700 East Kahler Road in Wilmington on Monday, August 3, 2026 at 1:30 p.m. A procession will depart at 2:00 p.m. for Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood, where Tucker will be laid to rest with full military honors.

Family and friends are encouraged to log onto www.BaskervilleFuneral.com to sign the guest book, upload photographs and share Tucker’s memorial page online through social media.

Memorial services and arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Reeves, Fruland & Baskerville Funeral Homes and Crematory. (815-476-2181)