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Phillip Ray Rucker,Sr.

Phillip Ray Rucker,Sr., "Pops", age 93, passed away peacefully on Saturday, January, 14, 2023 in Hendersonville, North Carolina.

Phil was born May 26, 1929. His parents are the late William Ralph Rucker, Sr. and Pearl Glascoe Rucker. Phil was preceded in death by his wife of almost 50 years, Carolyn Webb Rucker, his brother William Ralph "Tink" Rucker(Betty), Jr., and his sisters Mary Lillian Spangler(Ed) and Chris(Lewis) Rucker Wilson.

Phil was a graduate of Shelby High School Class of 1947, he attended Mars Hill College. He proudly served his country in The United States Air Force during the Korean Conflict.

After his military service, Phil returned to Shelby. In 1960 he founded Cleveland Contractors, Inc., a successful grading and construction business. During his career, Phil and his company completed many local, regional and state projects. The business continues to be family owned and operated.

After starting a family, Phil and Carolyn started a new endeavor of farming. He and Carolyn raised the boys on their farm and taught them responsibility, accountability as well as passing on their love for the animals and taking care of the land. 6RC Farm was a prominent Charolais beef cattle operation for many years.

Once retired, Phil & Carolyn relocated to Port Charlotte, Florida and Lake Lure, NC where they spent many wonderful years.

During his lifetime, Phil served on many boards associated with farming, livestock, construction as well as his community. He is a member of The Cleveland County Cattlemen's Hall of Fame and the North Carolina State Fair Livestock Hall of Fame. He served as a Cleveland County commissioner. He was an active supporter of Scouting. He joined Cub Scout Troop #5 in fourth grade and obtained the rank of Eagle. He is a lifelong member of the American Legion, Order of Elks and Veterans of Foreign Wars. Phil was a lifelong member of Central United Methodist church and a proud member of the Hoey Bible Class.

Phil is survived by his four sons; Will(Tina) Rucker of Shelby, Phil(Jennie) Rucker, Jr of Hamptonville, NC, Jim(Hope) Rucker of Shelby and Tim(Laura) Rucker of Shelby. He was a proud grandfather of twelve grandchildren; Nancy(Patrick) Greene, Anna Rucker & Morty Gaskill, Erin(Kyle) Richardson, Rae(Tanner) Vestal, Jacob Rucker, Christy Rucker & Jason Beaver, Patrick Rucker, McKenzie(Trevor) Mowery, Alex Hojnacki and Hayden Hojnacki, Kendrick Rucker and Jessie Rucker. He was a proud great-grandfather to Nelson Greene, Miller Greene and Shelby Richardson. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews.

The family would like to recognize Phil's special friend, Connie Siwak along with the amazing and caring staff at UNC-Pardee Hospital of Hendersonville, NC

The family will hold a Celebration of life Saturday, January 21, 2023 from 2-5pm at Spinning Leaf/North Lake, 1200 North Washington Street in Shelby.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorials be made to Central United Methodist Church-Window Fund, 200 East Marion Street, Shelby, NC 28150 or to the Donor's choice.

Cecil Burton Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.


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