SAMSON PARK – Kenneth Ray Tucker passed away on July 7, 2026, in Fort Worth, Texas, at the age of 80. He was born on Oct. 13, 1945, in Bowie, Texas, the youngest of fourteen children. Ken built a respected career as a roofing contractor, owning and operating Ken Tucker Roofing & Construction in River Oaks, Texas, for decades. He believed a handshake still meant something, that hard work mattered, and that every job was worth doing right. His reputation wasn’t built on contracts. It was built on trust, integrity, and the kind of handshake that never needed one. On Dec. 31, 1966, Ken married the love of his life, Gloria June Tucker. Together they built a home filled with love, faith, and unwavering support, a foundation that would continue to shape generations of their family. Though Gloria preceded him in death in 2016, the life they built together remained the foundation of the family he treasured. Those who knew Ken will remember his steady presence and gentle spirit. Quiet and mild-mannered, he was remarkably even-keeled and treated everyone with kindness and respect. He was quick with a warm smile, slow to anger, and never sought the spotlight. With a strong work ethic, unwavering integrity, and a willingness to give you the shirt off his back, Ken left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him. Outside of work, Ken enjoyed life’s simple pleasures. He could often be found sharing a game of pool with friends, a cold Dr Pepper never far from reach. He loved classic country music, old gospel hymns, and could happily spend an evening watching a good Western. He found joy in simple things and the company of good people. Ken’s relationship with Jesus Christ was the cornerstone of his life. He believed deeply in God’s goodness and sought to live with humility, honesty, and kindness. His faith wasn’t loud. It was evident in the way he loved people, kept his word, and extended grace to those around him. If there was one thing that mattered more to Ken than a handshake and an honest day’s work, it was his family. Ken was a devoted father to Monte Tucker, James “Joe” Downs, and Roger Downs. Known simply as Papa to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, he had a remarkable way of showing up exactly when he was needed most. When those he loved stumbled, Ken never led with judgment. He led with grace, acceptance, and a quiet determination to help put the pieces back together. To his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Papa wasn’t just someone you visited. He was someone you could always count on. His love was steadfast, unconditional, and quietly unwavering. Ken was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Gloria June Tucker; his son, Roger Downs; and 12 of his 13 brothers and sisters. He is survived by his brother, Jerry Tucker; his longtime companion, Shirley Taylor; his sons, Monte Tucker and James “Joe” Downs; his daughter-in-law, Melanie Tucker; Christine Rogers, who remained a cherished member of the Tucker family; his beloved grandchildren, Emerald Tucker, Sophia Tucker, Dylan Chavez, Max Chavez, Toby Tucker, Camerin Downs, Casie Sanchez, Makenzie Downs, Corey Downs, and Tucker Downs; and his adored great-grandchildren, Caydince, Haisley, Julian, Adelina, Taylor, Jaxtyn, and Opal, with another great-grandchild expected in January. As a contractor, Ken spent his life protecting homes and businesses. But those who loved him know his greatest work wasn’t measured in shingles or lumber. It was in the lives he strengthened, the people he encouraged, and the family he helped hold together. His legacy lives on in the family he loved, the lives he strengthened, and in every promise kept with the same honesty and integrity that defined his own life. A visitation will be held on Friday, July 17, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., followed by a funeral service at 12:00 p.m. in Greenwood’s Live Oak Chapel, 3100 White Settlement Road, Fort Worth, Texas 76107. Interment will follow at Hopewell Cemetery near Bowie, Texas, where generations of the Tucker family have been laid to rest. If you wish to honor Ken’s memory, keep your word. Lend a hand to someone who needs it. Lead with grace instead of judgment. Love your family well. And remember that some of life’s strongest promises are still sealed with nothing more than a handshake. GREENWOOD FUNERAL HOME Greenwood Funeral Homes – Cremation 3344 White Settlement Road, Fort Worth, TX 76107 817-336-0584

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