Howard J. Tucker, Sr.

November 4, 1939 - April 22, 2026

Howard J. Tucker, Sr.,  86, of Florence Township, passed away peacefully on April 22, 2026, at Serenity Hospice Inpatient Unit at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born and raised in Trenton, New Jersey, Howard was a lifelong area resident who remained deeply connected to his community throughout life. He was lovingly known as "Boobie" since childhood.

A U.S. Army veteran of the Vietnam War, Howard proudly served his country with spending four years in heavy artillery, followed by an additional two years in the reserves. Following his military service, he built a career as a skilled lithographer, dedicating many years to his craft.

Howard was a devoted provider for his family, sharing 25 years of marriage with Gladys, the mother of his children. Despite the profound sorrow of losing two children in 1989, he found immense joy in family, especially during his Florida golf trips with son-in-law Chuck and grandson Devon. He was a proud member of the Roma Club, the Bordentown Elks Lodge, the Moose Lodge, and the VFW (Veterans of Foreign Wars). Howard was a man of many passions, including car shows, golf, and tinkering in his garage, and excelled at darts and pool.  He will be fondly remembered for his passion for cars—especially his beloved vehicles, Jezebel and Rock On 1. He enjoyed trips to Atlantic City, Florida, and Las Vegas, always finding joy in travel.

He cherished time with family and friends, always keeping his mind and body active, which we believe contributed to his long life. Howard was a dedicated animal lover; his dogs meant the world to him. After losing their last dog two years ago, he and Colleen made the thoughtful decision not to get another, acknowledging the significant commitment involved.

Howard spent the final months of his journey at RWJH Hamilton He was grateful for the many doctors, nurses and ancillary personnel he came to know. He spent two weeks in intensive physical therapy at Hamilton Grove Rehabilitation Department on the Smart Unit. His face lit up at every session.

Predeceased by his parents, Frederick and Dorothy Tucker; his brothers, Fred “Sonny” Tucker and David Tucker; his sister, Joni Solarsky; his son, Howard J. Tucker Jr.; his daughter, Lori Ann Tucker; and his son-in-law, Chuck Egner.

He is survived by his loving wife, Colleen Thurman; his daughter, Michele Egner; his brother, William Tucker; his cherished grandchildren, Lori Ann (Cliff) Munn, Devon  (Dallas) Smart, Lilliana Munn, and Declan Smart; his special nephew, David  (Lisa) Tucker; their children, Matthew, Joey, and David; as well as many other nieces, nephews, other relatives and dear friends.

Howard’s warmth, humor, and love for life will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him.

 A Heart Felt Thank you to Colleen from Michele, Colleen spent day and night by my dad’s side and I will be forever grateful for your patience and loving spirit in his last moments.

Cremation will be held privately under the direction of Buklad-Merlino Memorial Homes.

A Celebration of Howard’s Life will be celebrated on Sunday, May 31, 2026 with an early dinner from 3:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. at the Roma Club, 739 Lincoln Avenue, Burlington, NJ 08016, 609-386-5532.

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