Published on July 3, 2026 2:03 pm
Last Updated on July 3, 2026 2:04 pm
John Keith Tucker, 79, of Effingham, IL, passed away on Wednesday, July 1, 2026 at Lakeland Rehabilitation and Health Care Center in Effingham.
Private family graveside services will be held at Brown Cemetery in Effingham with military rites. Services are in the care of Johnson Funeral Home in Effingham. In lieu of flowers and gifts, memorials may be made directly to Jim Beam’s Corner Cattery, 18086 N Rt. 45, Effingham, IL 62401 Online condolences may be shared at www.johnsonandsonsfh.com.
John was born on January 22, 1947, in Effingham, IL, the son of Wally and Moynell O. (Field) Tucker. John’s interest with snakes and turtles started at a young age, eventually turning into his career. John was a herpetologist for the Illinois Department of Natural Resources for twenty years. He was also an author of research publications and books with a primary focus on cone shells. He was a “Number 1 Papa”. John enjoyed spending time with his family.
John is survived by his daughter, Moynell “Nellie” Boone; grandchildren, Maelin J. Abbott Rinehart (fiancé, Chandler Murphy) and Sakura Lee Boone; sisters, Julie (Darrell) Hoffman and
Jeanne (Missy Alexander) Tucker; sister-in-law, Mary Jo Tucker; and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and brother, Kelly Tucker.