James O. Rucks

James (Jim) Odell Rucks, 90, passed away on Friday, September 28, 2018 following a brief illness. To close friends and family, he came to be known lovingly as "Pop". Jim was born June 17, 1928 in Dawson, Alabama to Elbert (Jerry) Eldridge and Ruby Faye Rucks. From humble beginnings and life on a farm, he graduated from Geraldine High School before marrying Billie Ruth (Smith) Rucks on October 24, 1948-a union that would last over 40 years and be blessed with one son, James Jeffrey (Jeff) Rucks.Jim served his country for 24 years attaining the rank of Senior Master Sergeant in the U.S. Airforce. Those years were filled with many exciting and enriching experiences as he and his family travelled the world. After retiring from his military career, Jim moved with Billie and Jeff to Birmingham, serving as an insurance adjuster for the next 20 plus years, primarily at GAB. After being a loving caretaker for and the passing of Billie, Jim was married to Dot Cochran who was his devoted companion for just over 10 years before she passed away. A common theme for Pop was that he put others before himself and took care of their needs, whether through the gifts of reliable cars (and frequent mechanic services) or money for grandchildren’s college educations. He was an unselfish, loving father, grandfather and great-grandfather, who through his faith and determination defeated both lung and colon cancer. Pop attended and served at several churches while quietly living out his faith in God. He loved to bowl, golf, garden and cheer on the University of Alabama football team with son Jeff often at his side. He also loved to use his auto-mechanic skills, with a favorite memory being the restoration of a vintage Pontiac Firebird with his son and grandson. Pop is survived by son, James Jeffrey Rucks, Sr. (Bridgett) and beloved grandchildren, Joey Danielle Farris (Cory), James Jeffrey Rucks, Jr. (Stephanie) and Jay William Gene Rucks. He is also survived by five amazing great-grandchildren that he cherished spending time with: Emily Rucks, Jaxon Rucks, Charisma Farris, Everleigh Rucks and Lorelei Farris. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Charles (Shorty) Arthur Rucks.There will be visitation on Tuesday, from 5-7 pm at Jefferson Memorial in Trussville, followed on Wednesday by a graveside service at 9:30 am at Jefferson Memorial Gardens East, and celebration of life on Wednesday at the Chapel at Church of the Highlands, Grants Mill Road at 11:30 am. In lieu of flowers, friends and family are encouraged to donate to the Juvenile Diabetes Association or American Cancer Society.