Bessie Lou Rucker

Bessie Lou Elkins Rucker, 81, of Huntington, WV passed away on Wednesday, December 17, 2008 at St. Mary's Medical Center. Funeral Services will be conducted on Sunday, December 21, 2008, 2:00 pm, at Beard Mortuary with Reverend Bonnie Boyce and Dr. Richard Wilson officiating. Burial will follow in Woodmere Memorial Park. Bessie was born April 18, 1927 in Huntington, WV, a daughter of the late Frank Elkins and Oma Jefferson Elkins. Bessie was preceded in death by her husband and life partner of fifty two years, Russell R. Rucker, Jr. She was also preceded in death by three sisters, Cleo Elkins, Faye Byrom and Audrey Elkins. A 1945 graduate of Marshall High School, she began her working career at Rucker, Billups & Fowler insurance agency.  Bessie was an active and devoted wife and mother who provided unconditional love and support to her husband and children. She participated in numerous school and community activities. Bessie was particularly proud of her involvement at Spring Valley Presbyterian Church, having served several terms as Clerk of Session at Spring Valley and as editor of "The Valley Viewer" church newspaper for many years. She is survived by a daughter and son-in-law, Pamela Rucker McMullen and Phillip; a son and daughter-in-law, Russell R. Rucker, III and Karen; grandsons Russell R. "Ford" Rucker, IV and Cole David Rucker; step-grand children Sara McMullen and Joe McMullen and two very special friends and caregivers, June Bowen and Paulette Rakes.  The family is sad to lose Bessie but thankful that she is no longer suffering and that she will be reunited with Russell. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to Spring Valley Presbyterian Church. The family will visit with friends on Saturday, December 20th, from 4:30 to 8:00pm at Beard Mortuary.

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