Thelma Russ Rucker was born to Rev. Calvin and Mary Russ on June 18, 1937, in Stephen, Arkansas.

Thelma grew up in Stephen, Arkansas. She accepted Christ at an early age where she attended Cedar Grove Baptist Church. She moved to Milwaukee. Wis. where she met her husband John B. Rucker.

She departed this life's journey on May 16, 2022.  Also preceding her in death was her husband, John B. Rucker of 42 years, a son, Isaiah Rucker, two grandsons: Jeremiah Russ Anderson and Tyrell Thornton, one granddaughter: Morla Phillips and stepchildren: John Rucker, Jr, Matt Rucker, Emmanuel Rucker and Jestine Rucker Collins.

She leaves to honor and celebrate her life's journey: Marilyn Rideout, Eloise Russ of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Susie Crutch (Jerry) Tulsa, Oklahoma, Ella  Mola Rucker of Little Elm, Texas; Johnnie Crutch (David),  Thelma V. Rucker and Lotsa Mae Rucker of Little Rock, Arkansas; Debra Anderson (Kenneth), Nora Brown (Willie), Joshua Rucker (Quantia), Eliza Johnson (Steve) and Tracy Rucker all of Camden, Arkansas; four step children: Diana Rucker, Regina Smith, Noah Rucker and Phillip Hobbs, Sr all of South Bend, Indiana; one brother, Jerry Russ; and two sisters:  Willma Thornton and Earlean Kemp.

Included with those who will miss and cherish are 22 grandkids and 21 great grandkids.  A host of nephews, nieces, cousins, friends, and fellow church members.