(1970 – 2022)
James Kevan Tucker loved outdoor activities; from hunting in his younger years, boating and fishing any chance he had, to raising cattle and gardening. He used these qualities to his benefit as he enjoyed tinkering and building things for his loved ones. His coworkers also benefitted from his strategic planning, organizational, and logistical skills.
Tucker served the citizens of Alabama for 29 years through the Alabama Cooperative Extension System. He was the County Extension Coordinator in Clarke County, Grove Hill AL. Over the course of his career, he was instrumental in many 4-H livestock programs such as Chick Chain, Pig Squeal, and Dairy Heifer programs. He also served as the coordinator of the HerdBuilder Replacement Heifer Sales. Clarke County gained from his guidance and skills in economic development projects.
Tucker was a member of several organizations including the Alabama Beef Cattle Improvement Association, Alabama Cattlemens Association, and Alabama Farmers Federation.
Tucker received the Distinguished Service Award from the Alabama Association of County Agricultural Agents and Specialists. For many years he co-chaired the association’s largest public relations activity, the annual County Agent’s Kitchen thanking the county commissioners for their support of Extension offices throughout Alabama. He was very active in hosting the National Association of County Agricultural Agents Conference in Mobile, serving as chairman of the facilities committee.
One colleague wrote: “For 30+ years, Kevan was part of my life, many times as a sounding board with his quick wit and wisdom. He was loved and admired by friends, family, coworkers, and clientele. The world was a better place, and I was made a better person for having known Kevan.”
He was proceeded in death by his father, James Pettus Tucker. He is survived by his daughter Jessie Tucker (William Fuller); mother, Mary Ellen Tucker; sister, Karan Ellen Tucker; uncle, Ralph Thomas Smith; special little buddy, Tre Etheredge.
In recognition of his years of service, the name James Kevan Tucker is inscribed on the dedicatory plaque of the Extension Memorial Chapel.
Chapel Plaque Inscription Number 669
