Our beloved mother, Laverne Rucker born on May 22, 1963, had an incredible gift for making others feel at home. She did not just enter a room – she filled it with light, warmth, laughter, and kindness. Known for her contagious laugh that could light up the darkest of days, she had the rare ability to turn strangers into friends. She was genuine, compassionate, and had an endless capacity to love everyone she met.
Her kindness knew no limits; she had a natural way of lifting up others, whether through a listening ear, a kind word, or a shoulder to lean on. She was a woman of simple joys, finding beauty in life’s little moments – family dinners, holiday celebrations, and most of all the laughter and closeness of her family.
Though we are heartbroken with her passing on October 29, 2024, we are also grateful for the gift of having her in our lives. We will miss her dearly, but we will keep her spirit alive by embodying the love and kindness she so freely shared. In our time of grief, we take comfort in knowing that she is reunited in heaven with her parents, Christine Randolph Rucker and Willie D. Rucker, Sr., and many other dear loved ones.
She is preceded in death by her parent Christine Randolph and Willie D. Rucker, Sr. She is survived by her husband and children: Michael D. Payne, Sr., Phillip William Payne, Tawayna Mechee Rucker, and Michael D. Payne, Jr. , her sisters and brothers: Elaine Nuckles, Sharon Ann Rucker, Sandra Dee Rucker, Willie D. Rucker, Jr., Michael Rucker, Robert Rucker, and Cary Rucker and a host of grandchildren, nieces and nephews who carry forward her legacy of love, laughter, and kindness. Her memory will forever be cherished by her family and countless friends who were blessed to know her.
May you now rest gently, Mama, in the warm embrace of eternity, until our souls reunite once again.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday,, November 6, 2024 at Wimberly Funeral Home between the hours of 12:00 PM- 7:00 PM. The family will receive friends on Wednesday and have a service between the hours 1:00 PM- 3:00 PM at Wimberly Funeral Home. Professional Services Entrusted to Wimberly Funeral Home.
