Billy Tucker

Billy Ray Tucker, 76 years of age, of New London, passed away Wednesday, June 22, 2016 at Carolinas HealthCare System in Pineville.

Billy was born May 29, 1940 in Wadesboro to the late Melvin Ray Tucker and the late Bessie Tucker Sellers. He was also preceded in death by brothers, Randy and Burnis Sellers; sister, Louise Melton, and special aunt, Helen Biggers.

The family will receive friends from 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm, Saturday, June 25, 2016 at Hartsell Funeral Home. The funeral service will be at 1:00 pm on Sunday, June 26, 2016 at Hartsell Funeral Home's Lefler Memorial Chapel, officiated by Rev. Jerry Mabry. Military honors will be conducted by the Stanly County DAV, Chapter 12. At other times, the family will be gathering at Mt. Creek Gold Mine in New London.

He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Juanita Maudine Hinson Tucker of the home; son, Ray Tucker of New London, daughter, Nadine Bowers of New London; granddaughters, Amber Tucker of Richfield, Jamie Bowers of New London; grandson, Jordon "Boo Boo" Davis of New London; great-grandchildren, Skylar and Miles; brothers, Curtis, DJ, and Danny Sellers, all of Chesterfield; sisters, Peggy Hoffman, Shelby Hodge, both of Chesterfield; step-brother, Wayne Tucker of New London; step-sisters, Carol Melton of Norwood, Linda Hatley of Albemarle; special friends, Mike and Mary Lego of PA, Tommy Smith of MA, RJ and Kari Handy of Newport, Bob Brinkman of New London, Jerry Wilkey of Asheboro, Wes Jackson of SC, and the rest of his gold mine friends and family.

Billy honorably served his country in the United States Army, and retired from ALCOA after 31 years of service. He was the 3rd generation owner and operator of Mt. Creek Gold Mine. His life revolved around prospecting for gold, and spending time with his family. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend. He loved meeting new people from all over the world, and treated everyone like they were family. He also enjoyed operating his backhoe.

Memorials may be made to Shriners Hospital for Children, c/o Office of Development, 2900 Rocky Point Dr., Tampa, FL, 33607 or at www.support.shrinershospital.org.

Hartsell Funeral Home of Albemarle is serving the Tucker family.

Online condolences may be made at www.hartsellfh.com