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Celebrating the life of

Benjamin Mayor Tucker, Ph.D

December 13, 1930 - June 04, 2013

Benjamin Mayor Tucker, Ph.D

In Loving Memory of Ben Tucker
Savannah's Diplomat Leaves a Legacy of Music & Service

- Savannah - Ben Tucker, legendary jazz musician, community icon, and benevolent spirit had a smile that opened doors and established friendships all over the world. At the age of 82, on June 4, 2013, Ben Tucker was killed when a speeding car hit his golf cart after enjoying a game of golf at his second home, The Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Club.

Benjamin Mayor Tucker, Ph.D, affectionately known as BT Jazz, made a life-long contribution to the world of jazz. Mr. Tucker has performed and recorded over a 50-year span with various artists, including: Art Blakey, Freddy Cole, Benny Goodman, Earl "Fatha" Hines, Shirley Horn, B.B. King, Herbie Mann, Marian McPartland, Mel Torme and Peggy Lee to name a few. The multi-talented musician and successful business man was admired by many for his illuminating gift to bring people together regardless of age, ethnicity or belief. One of Ben's proudest accomplishments was a jazz tribute to Nelson Mandela. Ben Tucker's distinguished accomplishments were recognized by leaders in music, business, presidents, leaders throughout the world. Yet, he remained humble and was a very down to earth person. Ben established friendships with his charming smile. Ben Tucker was loved and embraced by the Savannah community where he and his wife Gloria Tucker lived for 42 years.

Ben Tucker was born in Brentwood, Tennessee, December 13, 1930, to parents Joseph Sullivan Tucker and Carrie Ann Claiborne Tucker. Ben and his first wife were the parents of Sabra passed 1996 and Wayne Tucker who were raised in Pasadena, California. He served in the Air Force in 1952. He later married Gloria Daly in New York 1966. She was his inspiration for one of the biggest hits in the country, he wrote for Mrs. Tucker, "Coming Home Baby." Ben loved Gloria unconditionally based on his Christian belief, which he displayed in all aspects of his life. A successful musician, businessman, and community leader, Ben Tucker has influenced the world of jazz. He learned the fundamentals of music while in high school and entered Tennessee State University as music major.

Ben's success as a musician did not go unrecognized. He appeared before the house Sub-Committee on Communications and the Federal Communications Commission with testimony that resulted in changing the economic strata for black entrepreneurs. A leader with a purpose, Mr. Tucker was appointed to the Selective Service Board by President Carter and reappointed by President Reagan. In 1976, Benjamin Mayor Tucker received an Honorary Degree of Doctor of Humanities which was conferred upon him from B. F. Lee Theological Seminary. In l979, President Carter appointed Dr. Tucker to the Advisory Committee of the Arts for the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performance Art. In addition, he served on the Georgia Fair Employment Practices Advisory Board from 1979-1983. He received special recognition from the Kennedy Center's National Committee for the Performing Arts in April of 2013.

The City of Savannah has benefitted from his musical talent, knowledge, leadership and charitable skills. Ben became the owner and operator of Hard-Hearted Hannah's, a jazz club, which opened in September 15, 1985 and closed 1993. In 1972, he purchased WSOK radio station in Savannah which became # 1 for 13 years. Mr. Tucker served on numerous boards and committees to use his influence to sustain organizations that benefitted the community. Community engagement was his creed and the synergy he contributed to schools, youth organizations and adult learning, colleges, churches, and community business, was a part of his life's work. Ben was a friend and partner to thousands.

Ben's creative development brought him to music and his cognitive development brought him to the game of golf and leadership. He celebrated life through family, friends, music, travel, golf and mentoring, teaching and reaching the youth. A diplomatic leader and a renown champion for equality. B. T. Jazz was a shining example of service to the community.

Benjamin Tucker is survived by: his wife Gloria Tucker of 47 years, Wayne Tucker son, Ivan Daly, stepson, Reuben Tucker twin brother and his wife Erma; nephews Desmond, David and Derrick; nieces Loretta, and Larae; Edwin Grimsley, grandson; a host of other relatives and grand children.

Funeral Arrangements:

Mr. Tucker will lie in state Sunday, June 9, 2013 from 2:00 - 7:00 p.m. for public viewing at the Evangelical Lutheran Church of the Ascension, 120 Bull Street, at Wright Square, Savannah, GA. 31401.

Funeral Service – Monday, June 10, 2013, 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. at the Evangelical Lutheran Church of the Ascension.

Public Jazz Concert immediately after the service - Monday, June 10, 2013, 1:00 - 8:00 p.m. at Ellis Square, Savannah, GA. Bring the family to celebrate Ben Tucker's Legacy in Savannah, musicians & children welcome to join in this celebration. In the event of inclement weather, the concert will be held at the Savannah Theater, 222 Bull St.

Remembrances: In lieu of flowers the Tucker family requests donations be sent to: The Ben Tucker Family Foundation, c/o The Evangelical Lutheran Church of the Ascension, 120 Bull Street, Savannah, GA 31401.

Please sign our online guestbook at www.foxandweeks.com

Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel

SHARE YOUR CONDOLENCES

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GUEST BOOK

I'm very sorry to hear of this great loss. Mr. Tucker was greatly instrumental in blessing my broadcast career. I'm just learning of this. I would have been there to support his home going. He is a perpetual part of my memories. Peace and Blessings Family.

- Wlliam Moore III, North Chesterfield, VA

Dear Ben was a man whom Wordsworth described, for all his 'unremembered acts of kindness and of love'...and the many more which are remembered as well. Love and joy just flowed. Being in his presence was like being in sunshine. Our deepest condolences for your loss, Gloria.

- Ardis and Ray Wood, Savannah, GA

we will miss you ,and your music but you are in a better place and we have our memories of you. Condolences to the family, they are in or prayers

- Ed & Tammy Legette, Savannah, GA

Gloria and Family- Ben was a wonderful man I' met him at Sandra Davis Christmas party a few times and also chatted with him at Christmas concerts he performed on Skidaway Island at the church. I told him my son was a bass player who attended the Berklee College of Music. Although my son never met Ben they often emailed each other and Ben was kind enough to mail him a few of his CD's. My wife Gail and myself as well as my son extend our sympathy to you and your family. Sincerely Jim Quinn

- jim quinn, savannah, GA

Ben will be missed. He was an inspiration to many. I've known Ben since he arrived in Savannah while then employed with the C & S Bank.

- Al Pace, Savannah, GA

My heartfelt prayers are extended to the family of an inspirational and legendary gentleman. A great musician and friend to all, he will be mourned and missed by an entire nation of Jazz Music fans and fellow performers. Priscilla Albergotti and myself will be amoung Jazz Performers remembering him always. God's Greatest Blessings to the Family.

- Karyn Lambert, Beaufort, SC

Dear Gloria: While we have been away from Savannah a number of years still we thought of you and Ben frequently. It has been our privilege and honor to number ourselves as friends of Ben Tucker. We share your grief and will never forget Ben. With much love, Ben & Mitzi Aronson

- Ben & Mizi Aronson, Orlando, FL

My deepest sympathies to the entire family, friends, citizens of Savannah, State of Georgia and indeed, our Nation. Ben was truly a living inspiration to all of us and we will surely miss his presence with us. Jeff Felser former Alderman at Large Savannah City Council

- Jeff Felser, Savannah, GA

I enjoyed working for Ben at the DeRenne office, Mark

- Mark Loudermilch, , GA

Savannah has lost a Masterpiece. Heaven has gained one! Gloria and family we will continue to pray for you during this season.

- Paul and Dana Kennedy, Savannah, GA

Our hearts go out to Gloria and Family. We all knew what an exceptional man he was. Only Gloria will know the true loss of her love. Bunny

- Bunny Ludtke, Savannah, GA

My thoughts and prayers and with you and your family. Mr. Tucker was a great person and musician.

- Claudette R. Covington, Rockingham, NC

Ben and Gloria are two of the nicest people you would ever want to meet.The entire community will miss Ben. He was my adopted Daddy and Gloria my mother. The world has lost a true gentleman and scholar.

- Wanda Brooks, Savannah, GA

Dear Gloria: Three years after you and Ben arrived in Savannah, I came here and remember the Telfair Jazz Society and the great early times. One of my fondest memories of Ben was in 1999 when he invited Ellis Marsalis to the Pirates House for an evening of just wonderful music making that I will never forget.

- Ken Spriggs, Savannah, GA

Gloria. We share your grief and loss. Know you will find peace as you recall the wonderful and fruitful life you and Ben enjoyed.

- Danyse & Julius Edel, Savannah, GA

To the Tucker Family, Please know that we share your sorrow and extend our deepest sympathy on your loss. We, like thousands of others, 'knew' Ben because whenever we went to one of his performances he acknowledged us as though he was glad to see us again. In addition to his gift of music, we admired him as a man of dignity, principle, humility and generosity. We are honored to celebrate his life with you and all of Savannah and we will cherish his memory always.

- Louis Fair and Blenda Wilson, Savannah, GA

Dear Gloria, We are so sorry for your loss. Ben was a wonderful soul and is surely making music amongst the angels now. We will keep you and all the family in our thoughts and prayers. With our love and condolences, Brian and Paula Palmer, Savannah, GA, USA

- Brian and Paula Palmer, Savannah, GA

To the Family of Mr. Ben Tucker. I was employed at wsok radio on Henry & whitaker Street when Ben Arived ,We sheared many Hours together,I & My Son Were Saddened At The News, We Say To The Family GOD Bless All of You,Rest in peace Brother Ben...Sign Jimmy 'the gator''

- RevJames l Lang ,jr, Savannah, GA

We are deeply sorry to hear of the lost of Ben. He will be missed.

- Lawrence and Lorena Dean, Altadena,, CA

The legacy that Ben Tucker leaves is a perfect example of how we should live our lives to the fullest with a positive impact on all who cross our path. We just wanted you to physically stay around Forever. So grateful we had the opportunity to see your smile and hear you play. You always made us feel like Family.....

- Jacqueline Wise, Savannah, GA

Very shocking news about a wonderful man who put smiles on alot of people faces.My prayers and thoughts go out to the family . May GOD bless you at this down part of your life , may the spirits lift you high to carry and give you the strength you need. so very sorry for your loss .Ben you will be missed dearly. R.I.P .

- debbie berta, savannah, GA

Ben will surely be missed. So sorry for your loss. Roy Green & Fran Beeler

- Roy Green, Santa Monica, CA

Our condolences from The Train Wrecks and the Bible family. Ben lives on through his music and good deeds.

- Jason Bible, savannah, GA

Dear Gloria, my heart goes out to you and your family during this terribly sad time. You and Ben were two of my favorite people. I will never forget, how long ago, he was a friend when I truly needed one. He was also so kind to my mother and would always play her favorite tune 'Satin Doll' for her. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and if there is ANYTHING that i can do to help, I will. Fondly ,Carol

- Carol Brady-Fonvielle, Savannah, GA

To the family may GOD give you peace and comfort through this time of your lost.

- Michael Thomas, savannah, GA

What a rich life. His passing leaves behind a fuller and more beautiful world.

- Ron Magill, Salem, NJ

Our prayers are with Gloria and the Tucker family. Ben lived his life with purpose and has left us all with fond memories. I thank you both for allowing me to work at WSOK. Your kindness to me will never be forgotten.

- Beverly & Paul Wesley, Decatur, GA

Gloria, I am so sorry for your loss. I will miss Ben and his gentle spirit and his always wonderful smile. Ben set such an example to everyone of how we should live our lives. He was a truly great man.

- Catherine Bruce, Savannah, GA

Words fail. But the joy of having known him outweighs the pain of losing him. Gloria, please accept my deepest sympathy.

- Feay Shellman Coleman, Cincinnati, OH

Ben always treated me with respect and kindness. As a fellow musician, that meant a lot. Another instrument has been added to the heavenly band. He's home.

- Gail Thurmond, Savannah, GA

Mrs. Gloria Tucker, May the depth of your faith, cherished memories and the love of those who share your loss comfort you at this time of sadness. With sympathy and prayers, Hugh Johnson and Family

- Hugh Johnson, Jr., Pearland, TX

Eternal rest grant to them O Lord and let perpetual light shine upon them. May the souls of all the faithfully departed through the mercy of God rest in peace. Amen. Ben, your bright smile, wonderful spirit and rhythmic beat will live on.

- Hallie Currigan, Savannah, GA

Ben's music touched so many generations as did he. His humor was endless and so was his smile. His heart was as big as he was and his generosity knew no bounds. This world was blessed to have him in it and so were we. It was an honor and privilege to know him, to call him friend and to love and be loved by him. Til We Meet Again dear Ben-thank you. We miss you.

- Nina and Bob Thomas, Savannah, GA

To Gloria, my sincerest condolences on the tragic loss of Ben, one of the nicest people I knew over the last 20 years. May his soul rest in peace and harmony. Maureen Horvath

- maureen horvath, savannah, GA

Gloria, thank you for sharing your wonderful husband with all of us. Ben was amazing in all that he did and in all that he was. He was a dear and gentle man as well as a gifted musician. You were the perfect couple! May God be with you, always. Thank you, Ben Tucker!

- Cheryl V. Grayson, Savannah, GA

Gloria, my condolences. Ben was one of the nicest people I ever met. Long after he sold the station, he would show up at the WSOK offices on Henry Street to visit. It was always a treat.

- Jerry Stevens, Five Forks, SC

Gloria - I was a fan of Ben Tucker when in college 50 years ago and later became a fan of both of you when I moved to Savannah over 20 years ago. I love you both - many condolences

- Barbara Artsay, Savannah, GA

God truly blessed Savannah with a fine talented Christian man as Mr. Tucker. He will be missed by all. Prayers to his family and friends. May we all strive to be more like him.

- Denise Brown-Joyce, Garden City, GA

My dear friend... thank you. Thank you. Thank you.

- Jason Canady, Fayetteville, NC

Ben was a wonderful and generous man that I came to know through his committment to Royce Learning Center at Chatham Academy when he would play at their fundraising events. He was a man of pure class and talent. He will be missed and my condolences to his family and friends. Until we all meet again in Heaven my friends, Victory in Jesus!

- Michelle Reavis, Savannah, GA

Ben Tucker was the person most of humanity aspires to be.

- James Edward & Toian Alexander, Bluffton, GA

My late parents, Sidney and Anita Raskin, were fond friends of Ben and Gloria, and I too think of you both with great fondness. A terribly sad loss for your family and all of Savannah. I extend my heartfelt condolences.

- Laurie Raskin Katz, Needham, MA

Rest in peace Ben and thank you for sharing your sunshine with Savannah.

- Lisa Hom, Savannah, GA

Dear Gloria, You are in our prayers, as we grieve with you. SO sorry about your loss of such a dear man...a husband, partner, lover, cook, companion, Gentleman, and trusted friend of so many. Our fondest memories of Savannah including spending time with you and Ben. Our sincere condolences, Kathy & Jack Hrad

- Jack & Kathy Hrad, White Plains, NY

With deepest sadness, respect and admiration for a man that loved people.....loved music.....loved life! Ben was made for Savannah and Savannah was made for Ben!

- Ron Palefsky, Savannah, GA

And the Angels sing '

- , Savannah, GA

Ben was a wonderful man with a warm and loving spirit. I had the privilege of conducting a few weddings for which he played. He was professional, personal, and a kind human being. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.

- Rev. John Anderson, Savannah, GA

I know in my heart even though Ben is not with us, another star has been added in the sky tonight. It may seem as if it is millions of miles away it's shines the brightest and still fills us with warmth just like his smile did. May it help to know that others care deeply and are remembering you with prayers and thoughts. You can't take that away from me...

- Gail Thompson, Savannah, GA

You will be missed. Your radiant smile will live on in the memory of all who knew you.

- Jane Krause, Nashville, TN

What a gift Ben was to this city, this country, and to the world. He was a a gentleman, a jokester, a musician and a joy to the world. Goodnight, dear Ben.

- Miriam Center, Savannah, GA

I'm very sorry to hear of this great loss. Mr. Tucker was greatly instrumental in blessing my broadcast career. I'm just learning of this. I would have been there to support his home going. He is a perpetual part of my memories. Peace and Blessings Family.

- Wlliam Moore III, North Chesterfield, VA

Dear Ben was a man whom Wordsworth described, for all his 'unremembered acts of kindness and of love'...and the many more which are remembered as well. Love and joy just flowed. Being in his presence was like being in sunshine. Our deepest condolences for your loss, Gloria.

- Ardis and Ray Wood, Savannah, GA

we will miss you ,and your music but you are in a better place and we have our memories of you. Condolences to the family, they are in or prayers

- Ed & Tammy Legette, Savannah, GA

Gloria and Family- Ben was a wonderful man I' met him at Sandra Davis Christmas party a few times and also chatted with him at Christmas concerts he performed on Skidaway Island at the church. I told him my son was a bass player who attended the Berklee College of Music. Although my son never met Ben they often emailed each other and Ben was kind enough to mail him a few of his CD's. My wife Gail and myself as well as my son extend our sympathy to you and your family. Sincerely Jim Quinn

- jim quinn, savannah, GA

Ben will be missed. He was an inspiration to many. I've known Ben since he arrived in Savannah while then employed with the C & S Bank.

- Al Pace, Savannah, GA

My heartfelt prayers are extended to the family of an inspirational and legendary gentleman. A great musician and friend to all, he will be mourned and missed by an entire nation of Jazz Music fans and fellow performers. Priscilla Albergotti and myself will be amoung Jazz Performers remembering him always. God's Greatest Blessings to the Family.

- Karyn Lambert, Beaufort, SC

Dear Gloria: While we have been away from Savannah a number of years still we thought of you and Ben frequently. It has been our privilege and honor to number ourselves as friends of Ben Tucker. We share your grief and will never forget Ben. With much love, Ben & Mitzi Aronson

- Ben & Mizi Aronson, Orlando, FL

My deepest sympathies to the entire family, friends, citizens of Savannah, State of Georgia and indeed, our Nation. Ben was truly a living inspiration to all of us and we will surely miss his presence with us. Jeff Felser former Alderman at Large Savannah City Council

- Jeff Felser, Savannah, GA

I enjoyed working for Ben at the DeRenne office, Mark

- Mark Loudermilch, , GA

Savannah has lost a Masterpiece. Heaven has gained one! Gloria and family we will continue to pray for you during this season.

- Paul and Dana Kennedy, Savannah, GA

Our hearts go out to Gloria and Family. We all knew what an exceptional man he was. Only Gloria will know the true loss of her love. Bunny

- Bunny Ludtke, Savannah, GA

My thoughts and prayers and with you and your family. Mr. Tucker was a great person and musician.

- Claudette R. Covington, Rockingham, NC

Ben and Gloria are two of the nicest people you would ever want to meet.The entire community will miss Ben. He was my adopted Daddy and Gloria my mother. The world has lost a true gentleman and scholar.

- Wanda Brooks, Savannah, GA

Dear Gloria: Three years after you and Ben arrived in Savannah, I came here and remember the Telfair Jazz Society and the great early times. One of my fondest memories of Ben was in 1999 when he invited Ellis Marsalis to the Pirates House for an evening of just wonderful music making that I will never forget.

- Ken Spriggs, Savannah, GA

Gloria. We share your grief and loss. Know you will find peace as you recall the wonderful and fruitful life you and Ben enjoyed.

- Danyse & Julius Edel, Savannah, GA

To the Tucker Family, Please know that we share your sorrow and extend our deepest sympathy on your loss. We, like thousands of others, 'knew' Ben because whenever we went to one of his performances he acknowledged us as though he was glad to see us again. In addition to his gift of music, we admired him as a man of dignity, principle, humility and generosity. We are honored to celebrate his life with you and all of Savannah and we will cherish his memory always.

- Louis Fair and Blenda Wilson, Savannah, GA

Dear Gloria, We are so sorry for your loss. Ben was a wonderful soul and is surely making music amongst the angels now. We will keep you and all the family in our thoughts and prayers. With our love and condolences, Brian and Paula Palmer, Savannah, GA, USA

- Brian and Paula Palmer, Savannah, GA

To the Family of Mr. Ben Tucker. I was employed at wsok radio on Henry & whitaker Street when Ben Arived ,We sheared many Hours together,I & My Son Were Saddened At The News, We Say To The Family GOD Bless All of You,Rest in peace Brother Ben...Sign Jimmy 'the gator''

- RevJames l Lang ,jr, Savannah, GA

We are deeply sorry to hear of the lost of Ben. He will be missed.

- Lawrence and Lorena Dean, Altadena,, CA

The legacy that Ben Tucker leaves is a perfect example of how we should live our lives to the fullest with a positive impact on all who cross our path. We just wanted you to physically stay around Forever. So grateful we had the opportunity to see your smile and hear you play. You always made us feel like Family.....

- Jacqueline Wise, Savannah, GA

Very shocking news about a wonderful man who put smiles on alot of people faces.My prayers and thoughts go out to the family . May GOD bless you at this down part of your life , may the spirits lift you high to carry and give you the strength you need. so very sorry for your loss .Ben you will be missed dearly. R.I.P .

- debbie berta, savannah, GA

Ben will surely be missed. So sorry for your loss. Roy Green & Fran Beeler

- Roy Green, Santa Monica, CA

Our condolences from The Train Wrecks and the Bible family. Ben lives on through his music and good deeds.

- Jason Bible, savannah, GA

Dear Gloria, my heart goes out to you and your family during this terribly sad time. You and Ben were two of my favorite people. I will never forget, how long ago, he was a friend when I truly needed one. He was also so kind to my mother and would always play her favorite tune 'Satin Doll' for her. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and if there is ANYTHING that i can do to help, I will. Fondly ,Carol

- Carol Brady-Fonvielle, Savannah, GA

To the family may GOD give you peace and comfort through this time of your lost.

- Michael Thomas, savannah, GA

What a rich life. His passing leaves behind a fuller and more beautiful world.

- Ron Magill, Salem, NJ

Our prayers are with Gloria and the Tucker family. Ben lived his life with purpose and has left us all with fond memories. I thank you both for allowing me to work at WSOK. Your kindness to me will never be forgotten.

- Beverly & Paul Wesley, Decatur, GA

Gloria, I am so sorry for your loss. I will miss Ben and his gentle spirit and his always wonderful smile. Ben set such an example to everyone of how we should live our lives. He was a truly great man.

- Catherine Bruce, Savannah, GA

Words fail. But the joy of having known him outweighs the pain of losing him. Gloria, please accept my deepest sympathy.

- Feay Shellman Coleman, Cincinnati, OH

Ben always treated me with respect and kindness. As a fellow musician, that meant a lot. Another instrument has been added to the heavenly band. He's home.

- Gail Thurmond, Savannah, GA

Mrs. Gloria Tucker, May the depth of your faith, cherished memories and the love of those who share your loss comfort you at this time of sadness. With sympathy and prayers, Hugh Johnson and Family

- Hugh Johnson, Jr., Pearland, TX

Eternal rest grant to them O Lord and let perpetual light shine upon them. May the souls of all the faithfully departed through the mercy of God rest in peace. Amen. Ben, your bright smile, wonderful spirit and rhythmic beat will live on.

- Hallie Currigan, Savannah, GA

Ben's music touched so many generations as did he. His humor was endless and so was his smile. His heart was as big as he was and his generosity knew no bounds. This world was blessed to have him in it and so were we. It was an honor and privilege to know him, to call him friend and to love and be loved by him. Til We Meet Again dear Ben-thank you. We miss you.

- Nina and Bob Thomas, Savannah, GA

To Gloria, my sincerest condolences on the tragic loss of Ben, one of the nicest people I knew over the last 20 years. May his soul rest in peace and harmony. Maureen Horvath

- maureen horvath, savannah, GA

Gloria, thank you for sharing your wonderful husband with all of us. Ben was amazing in all that he did and in all that he was. He was a dear and gentle man as well as a gifted musician. You were the perfect couple! May God be with you, always. Thank you, Ben Tucker!

- Cheryl V. Grayson, Savannah, GA

Gloria, my condolences. Ben was one of the nicest people I ever met. Long after he sold the station, he would show up at the WSOK offices on Henry Street to visit. It was always a treat.

- Jerry Stevens, Five Forks, SC

Gloria - I was a fan of Ben Tucker when in college 50 years ago and later became a fan of both of you when I moved to Savannah over 20 years ago. I love you both - many condolences

- Barbara Artsay, Savannah, GA

God truly blessed Savannah with a fine talented Christian man as Mr. Tucker. He will be missed by all. Prayers to his family and friends. May we all strive to be more like him.

- Denise Brown-Joyce, Garden City, GA

My dear friend... thank you. Thank you. Thank you.

- Jason Canady, Fayetteville, NC

Ben was a wonderful and generous man that I came to know through his committment to Royce Learning Center at Chatham Academy when he would play at their fundraising events. He was a man of pure class and talent. He will be missed and my condolences to his family and friends. Until we all meet again in Heaven my friends, Victory in Jesus!

- Michelle Reavis, Savannah, GA

Ben Tucker was the person most of humanity aspires to be.

- James Edward & Toian Alexander, Bluffton, GA

My late parents, Sidney and Anita Raskin, were fond friends of Ben and Gloria, and I too think of you both with great fondness. A terribly sad loss for your family and all of Savannah. I extend my heartfelt condolences.

- Laurie Raskin Katz, Needham, MA

Rest in peace Ben and thank you for sharing your sunshine with Savannah.

- Lisa Hom, Savannah, GA

Dear Gloria, You are in our prayers, as we grieve with you. SO sorry about your loss of such a dear man...a husband, partner, lover, cook, companion, Gentleman, and trusted friend of so many. Our fondest memories of Savannah including spending time with you and Ben. Our sincere condolences, Kathy & Jack Hrad

- Jack & Kathy Hrad, White Plains, NY

With deepest sadness, respect and admiration for a man that loved people.....loved music.....loved life! Ben was made for Savannah and Savannah was made for Ben!

- Ron Palefsky, Savannah, GA

And the Angels sing '

- , Savannah, GA

Ben was a wonderful man with a warm and loving spirit. I had the privilege of conducting a few weddings for which he played. He was professional, personal, and a kind human being. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.

- Rev. John Anderson, Savannah, GA

I know in my heart even though Ben is not with us, another star has been added in the sky tonight. It may seem as if it is millions of miles away it's shines the brightest and still fills us with warmth just like his smile did. May it help to know that others care deeply and are remembering you with prayers and thoughts. You can't take that away from me...

- Gail Thompson, Savannah, GA

You will be missed. Your radiant smile will live on in the memory of all who knew you.

- Jane Krause, Nashville, TN

Gloria, you know Ben hung out at our family's restaurant, the Pirates' House, a lot, playing music and giving us a groove. After my father died in 2008 and we were preparing to receive friends at the funeral home, Ben arrived with his bass. He just slipped in, set it up at a discrete distance behind our father's casket and next to us, and started playing. So there it was - the receiving line and its accompanying musical angel. Two hours later, he wrapped up his set as the last of hundreds of guests were gone. That was his gift to our family and all the mourners: lightness and love at a sad time. Of course, his music and cool self had accompanied us at many more joyful times down the years. Now, we want to send some of this lightness and love back to you. Please accept our deepest condolences for your loss of this gifted, talented and transcendental man.

- Kit Traub, Falls Church, VA

What a gift Ben was to this city, this country, and to the world. He was a a gentleman, a jokester, a musician and a joy to the world. Goodnight, dear Ben.

- Miriam Center, Savannah, GA

Services under the direction of:

Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
912-352-7200