June 9, 1952 — February 20, 2025
Albert Rucker Jr., affectionately known as “Al,” passed away on February 20, 2025, at St. Dominic’s Hospital in Jackson, Mississippi. Born on June 9, 1952, in Jackson, he grew up in Richland before making his home in Florence, where he resided for the past 54 years.
Al had a distinguished career of 54 years as a Senior Certified Plumbing Engineer for 4 different engineering firms, ending with CDFL Architects & Engineers. He designed a majority of the medical gas, HVAC and plumbing systems for UMMC, The Children’s Hospital of Jackson and The Children’s Museum of Jackson. Notable among his many accomplishments were large scale projects of several universities in Mississippi and Alabama as well as massive government installations. His commitment to his work was matched by his devotion to his family and community.
Throughout his life, Al was actively engaged with various interests and hobbies. He was an exceptional water skier and later transitioned to professional boat driver. As a driver, he was on the Tow Boat Committee as well as the chief boat driver for multiple Regionals and Nationals. He drove Jr. Worlds in Mexico, Worlds in France, Team Trials and pro water ski tournaments all over the United States. Al had a passion for playing pool, being a member of various pool leagues, and enjoyed skeet shooting. His community spirit shone brightly through his involvement with the Cleary Heights Board of Governors, the Cleary Heights Civic Improvement and the Cleary Heights Volunteer Fire Department.
Al is survived by his beloved wife of 54 years, Joyce Marie Rucker, of Florence; his daughter Christina Ann Curtis (Wayne); and his son Brian Albert Rucker (Angela). He was a proud grandfather to three grandchildren: Alicia Marie Jimenez (Ramiro), Christopher Wayne Curtis (Kendall), and Ryder Albert Reid Rucker. His legacy also lives on through five great-grandchildren: Dalton Floyd, Londyn Floyd, Wyatt Floyd, Luke Curtis, and Elizabeth Curtis. Al is also survived by his sisters, Debbie Rucker Saik (Albert), and Ann Rucker Losset (Mark), his brother Tony Comeaux (Pat), along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Nina Rucker Sr., and his granddaughter, Laurin Danielle Curtis.
Al Rucker will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His humor, love of life, kind heart, adventurous spirit, and dedication to his family and community leave an indelible mark on those he cherished.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to St. Jude Hospital, Wounded Warriors and/or Paws of Honor.
Arrangements for a celebration of life memorial will be decided at a later date.
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