Gerald Franklin Tucker (Jerry), founder of Galilean Home Ministries, Inc., passed away on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, at his home, leaving behind a legacy of faith, strength, and unwavering dedication to others. He was born on October 2, 1940, in Detroit, Michigan, and from an early age, demonstrated a resilience that would define the course of his life.

As a young boy, Jerry faced tremendous responsibility. At just 12 years old, he became the man of the house, shouldering duties far beyond his years. This early experience shaped his strong character, deep sense of duty, and steadfast work ethic. At 17, he left home to serve his country in the United States Army, continuing his lifelong commitment to service.

Following his time in the military, Jerry returned home and built a life grounded in hard work and determination. A skilled block layer by trade, he went on to establish a construction business. Known for his imposing stature—standing 6 feet 2 inches tall and weighing 260 pounds—Jerry was a man whose presence was both commanding and reassuring.

Jerry was a man of firm convictions. He was stern, direct, and unwavering in his beliefs, earning the respect of those who knew him. Alongside his beloved wife, Sandy Tucker, he devoted his life to a powerful calling: caring for children in need. Together, they founded Galilean Home Ministries, Inc., opening their home and hearts to children and adults from foreign countries as well as those with special needs. Through their ministry work, they also established Bread of Life Café and Galilean Christian Academy, further extending their mission of service, faith, and community outreach. Their ministry became a place of refuge, love, and opportunity for countless lives.

Above all, Jerry was a devoted husband, a loving father, a nurturing grandfather, and a caring brother. To those who loved him most, he was “Dad,” “Papaw,” and “Papa Oso.”

His life was defined by sacrifice, strength, and compassion in action. The lives he touched—through his family, his work, and his ministry—stand as a testament to the man he was.

Jerry will be remembered for his steadfast spirit, his enduring faith, and his commitment to helping others. His legacy will live on through the many lives he changed and the mission he and Sandy began.

He is survived by children, Becky Martin (Merv Martin), Jessica Stephens (Kevin Stephens), Jeremy Tucker (Adrienne Tucker), Jeff Tucker (Alta Tucker), John Tucker, Renee’ Al-Gassab, Luella Tucker, Sunshine Bates (Gareth Bates), James Tucker, Elizabeth Tucker, Rosie Tucker, Ernie Tucker, Patty Tucker, Rebekah Tucker, Kristi Tucker,  Alicia Redinger (John Redinger), Ena Lee (Jared Lee), Candy Brock (Billy Brock), Mara Velica, Zachary Harpin (Sarah Harpin), Fredy Caballero (Helen Caballero), Jean Beaudelaire (Ashley Beaudelaire), Tony Paz (Erin Paz), Martin Murrillo (Leah Murrillo), Abdul Samad, John Sanabria (Mikaela Sanabria), Ebony Bright, George Sallee, Levi Kaley, Jessica Pullen, Vennie Dorvil, Lance Brown, a father to many others; and a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Jerry is preceded in death by his loving wife of forty-five years, Sandy Tucker; three brothers, Richard Tucker, Michael Tucker, and Tommy Tucker; his father, Frank Tucker; his mother, Catherine Tucker; and his children, Laurie Hemsoth, Rochelle Tucker, Donald Tucker, Robbie Tucker, Tommy Tucker, Ramsey Porter, Sandy Thermilus,  Milton Tucker, Amy Tucker, Weldon Tucker, and Frankie Sierra.

The funeral service will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Monday, May 4, 2026, at the Galilean Home Gymnasium with Bro. Derick Terry and Bro. Matt Loper officiating.

Burial will be held privately.

The family will receive friends from 3:00 P.M. to 9:00 P.M. on Sunday, May 3, 2026, and from 8:00 A.M. to 11:00 A.M. on Monday, May 4, 2026, at the Galilean Home Gymnasium.

Pallbearers will be: Tyler Martin, Gabe Martin, Jordan Martin, Cameron Martin, Logan Stephens, Evan Stephens, Isaac Tucker, and Michael Tucker.

Honorary pallbearers will be: Jeffery Tucker, Alex Tucker, Nick Tucker, Benji Tucker, Isiah Harpin, Sebastian Heseman, Preston Tucker, Spencer Sheehan, Kaden Stephens, Benicio Paz, and Colton Tucker.

Memorial contributions may take the form of donations In Memory of Jerry Tucker to Galilean Home Ministries, Inc. at PO Box 880, Liberty, Kentucky 42539.