Constance Ann Tucker

Constance Ann "Connie" Tucker, 94, of Independence passed away on August 31, 2025, in Neodesha. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, September 6, 2025, at The First Christian Church with burial to follow in Pratt Cemetery. Friends may sign the register on Friday, September 5, 2025, from 12:00 noon until 3:00 pm., at Webb & Rodrick Chapel and the family will greet visitors on Friday from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m., at The First Christian Church. She was born on May 19, 1931, in Independence to Don Royal and Mollie Lucille (Paxton) Calkins. Connie holds the distinction of being the first cesarean section baby born in Independence. Her mother was having complications, and the attending physician had to receive instructions over the telephone to perform the procedure. She attended schools in Independence and Augusta, Kansas, graduating from Independence High School in 1949. Following high school, she completed one year at Independence Community Junior College.

On July 2, 1950, Connie married Carl H. Tucker Jr. in Independence. Together, they welcomed eight children and 20 grandchildren. The couple farmed and ranched for many years, and in 1964, they founded Tucker LP Gas Company and ran it for 30 years.

Connie was an active member of the First Christian Church in Independence, where she served as a deacon, an elder and on many committees. She was also active in the Christian Women's Fellowship and the King’s Class. Connie started and ran a clothing room at the church for many years, serving those in need in the community.

In the community, Connie served as a Girl Scout Leader for many years and hosted Girl Scout Camps on their farm. She was a member of the Concerned Citizens of Montgomery County and enjoyed the Night Owls County Extension Group, the 60s club, and attending Community Concerts.

Connie lived to be with her family. She loved family gatherings where all manner of competitive games, especially cards, were played. Many of her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren wanted to be her partner because they knew they stood a good chance of winning on her team. She loved music and loved to hear her family sing and play instruments. She was known for being able to feed a large group that could show up without notice and all were welcome at her table.

Connie was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Carl H. Tucker Jr.; her sons, Carl Tucker III and Andrew Tucker; her daughter, Rev. Stephanie Tucker; her granddaughter, Danse Kyrie Porter; her sisters, Vera (Clifford) Johnson and Charlotte (Howard) Holliday; her brother, Don (Tealy) Calkins; her nephews, Michael Calkins and Don Holliday; and her niece, Mary Bradshaw.

She is survived by her children: Stephen (Elaine) Tucker, Gary Tucker, Sandra (Kendall) Shire, Susan (Paul) Porter, Joe (Lara) Tucker, and daughter-in-law Karen Tucker (Carl III), all of Independence, adopted son Ken (Christine) Williams, McHenry, Illinois Her grandchildren include Carrie (Kevin) Vincent, Amory (Jonathan) Sweeney, Nathan (Maya) Shire, Jennifer (Richard) O’Konski, Joshua Tucker, Ivory Porter, Carl Tucker IV, Tabor Riskes, Sally (Matt) Kittrell, England Porter (Nick Rau), Mary Green, Leah (Christian) Davidson, Tucker Porter, Caitlin Shire, Carlie Shire, Andrew (Ane) Tucker, Audrey Wright, ( Cole Cranor) David Tucker, and Larin (Kahn) Do. She is also survived by 26 great-grandchildren and a host of nieces and nephews. Connie and Carl were also host parents to 20 foreign exchange students.

Memorial contributions in Connie’s name may be made to First Christian Church, for children to attend church camp. And may be left with the church or mailed to 319 W. Laurel, Independence, KS 67301. To leave a special message for the family please visit www.webbrodrickchapel.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Webb & Rodrick Chapel and Crematory.