Judith Harolyn Tucker passed away peacefully at her home on October 26, 2026, at the age of 84.
Harolyn was born on October 23, 1942, to Harold Leslie Phelps and Sunshine Elizabeth (Jones) Phelps.
She graduated from Reidland High School in 1960 and earned her bachelor’s degree from Murray State University in 1964. She continued her education throughout her career, earning her master’s degree and completing an additional 30 graduate hours beyond her master’s.
Harolyn married Morris Wayne Tucker in 1964 and enjoyed their devoted marriage for 56 years until Morris Wayne’s passing in 2020.
Teaching was Harolyn’s passion and calling. She began her 30-year career as an educator in the Ballard County School District and later taught at Heath High School before moving to Reidland Middle School, where she taught for more than 25 years. She dedicated her life to encouraging students to learn, grow, and become the best versions of themselves.
Harolyn was deeply passionate about her community and served on several community boards, including as president of the Retired Teachers Association. She was also honored with the distinction of Kentucky Colonel, recognizing her contributions and service.
A talented and creative artist, Harolyn seemed to excel at nearly anything she tried. She enjoyed quilting, knitting, and painting, and even taught painting classes. Some of her fondest memories were made traveling and painting alongside a special group of women who shared her love of art and adventure.
Above all, Harolyn will be remembered for her greatest gift: teaching. Whether in a classroom, through her art, or in everyday life, she constantly encouraged those around her to be better and do better. She believed in standing up for what you believe in, embracing life's opportunities, and having the courage to forge your own path.
Her boldness and independent spirit were perhaps best captured by her favorite saying: “Ask forgiveness, not permission.”
Harolyn was preceded in death by her beloved husband , Morris Wayne Tucker; parents and sister, Elizabeth “Tippy” Wicker.
She is survived by her daughter, Bethany Tucker and wife, Wendi Elton; her dear cousin, Susan Carr, and husband, Lewis; Morgan Hall and husband, Les Hall; and her “grandkids,” Mason Hall and Layla Parker, who will cherish the memories and lessons she leaves behind.
A private family service to follow. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, an organization dedicated to inspiring a love of reading in children.
Donations may be made online at donate.imaginationlibrary.com or mailed to:
Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library
111 E. Main St., 2nd Floor
Sevierville, TN 37862
Share a memory or leave a message for the family at www.milnerandorr.com.
