Lucille Rucker Vann

Lucille “Nettie B” Rucker was born on December 9, 1940, to the union of the late Alex and Indy Rucker. She was the thirteenth and youngest child in a large and loving family. Growing up surrounded by many brothers and sisters helped shape Lucille’s strong spirit, caring heart, and deep love for family that she carried throughout her life.

Lucille attended Langston Elementary, Sadler Jr. High School, and Manual Training High School. She was baptized at an early age and maintained a lifelong relationship with God. From a young age, she learned the value of hard work, perseverance, and being of service to others.

In time, Lucille met Johnnie Vann, and together they built a strong and loving partnership. As a team, they were known for their kindness, generosity, and willingness to help anyone in need. Family and friends knew Lucille and Johnnie as the kind of people who would give the shirt off their backs to someone in need. Lucille was also known for being a straightforward, no-nonsense person who spoke her mind, but always from a place of honesty and love.

A dedicated and hardworking woman, Lucille worked for Brockway Glass Company, where she held several positions and faithfully served for 26 years before retiring. Her years of service reflected her commitment, work ethic, and determination to provide for her family.

Lucille was preceded in death by her husband, Johnnie Vann; son, Garcia Vann, her parents, Alex and Indy Rucker; and her twelve siblings: James, Enda, Endarine, Otelia, Elisa, Lewis, Otis, Julia, O.D., Evelyn, Pat, and David. She also shared a special bond with her cousin, Cora Mae Starnes, and held all of her nieces and nephews close to her heart.

Lucille’s greatest joy in life was her family. She leaves to cherish her precious memory three loving daughters: Floretta “Scoot” Maxwell, Marilyn Freeman, and LuNisha Vann. Her daughters were the pride of her life, and she loved them deeply. She was also very proud of her given son, David Burkhalter.

She was blessed with six grandchildren: Nicolee (Lyndell), Stacia, NiTasha, Quinten, Indy, and Zion, each of whom brought her great pride and happiness. Her love continues to shine through her ten great-grandchildren: Serenity, Grant, I’mir, Ni’Mir, Aniyah, Bryson, Iyla, Dominique Jr., Illy, and Ilia, who will carry forward her legacy of love, strength, and family devotion.

Lucille will always be remembered for her strong spirit, her generous heart, and the deep love she shared with those around her. She touched many lives with her kindness, honesty, and willingness to help others. Her presence will be deeply missed, but the memories she created and the love she gave will forever remain in the hearts of her family and all who knew and loved her.

Her legacy of love, strength, and devotion to family will continue to live on for generations to come.