Francis Allen Rucker, age 62 of Dawson Springs, fondly known as “Buddy,” was born on February 6, 1964, in Caldwell County. He passed away on February 26, 2026, at Baptist Health Deaconess Madisonville, leaving behind a legacy rich with the passion for life and an enduring love for his family.
Buddy dedicated over 30 years of his life to his career as a truck driver, a profession he truly cherished. He took great pride in having traveled across all 48 contiguous states, relishing the beauty of the American landscape and the experiences that came with the open road. His enthusiasm for trucking was matched only by his love of cooking.
A member of Days Springs Church in Dawson Springs, Buddy was a man of faith.
He is survived by his daughters, Jessica Moreen of Benton and Anna Stevenson of Tampa Beach, Florida. Buddy is also remembered by his devoted brothers: Darrell “Tom” Cayce of Fredonia, Robert Cayce (Wendy) of Kuttawa, and Harold “Tim” Cayce of Eddyville, as well as his sister, Christina “Tina” Odom of Kuttawa. His legacy continues through several grandchildren, who will carry forth the memory of their cherished grandfather.
Buddy now joins his deceased family members, including his father, Levine F. Rucker; his mother, Sylvia Cayce; his brother, Levine F. Rucker, Jr., and his sister, Anna Lee Rucker, in eternal rest.
A visitation will be held on March 3, 2026, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM, followed by a funeral service at Goodman Funeral Home, located at 1032 West Main St in Princeton, Kentucky, with Pastor Kathy Reddean officiating. Graveside Services at Jane Nichols Cemetery will be held at a later date.
Buddy Rucker’s spirit will be profoundly missed by all who knew him, yet his influence remains woven into the fabric of the lives he touched.
Goodman Funeral Home is honored to serve the Rucker family.
