Frances J. Tucker

FRANCES JEANETTE BERRY-TUCKER, the daughter of Harry and Maggie Berry who preceded her in death was born October 6, 1933. She departed this life peacefully on Wednesday, May 4, 2016 after an extended stay of approximately 30 years at Genesis Homewood Center, in Baltimore, Maryland. Frances was known to face many of her life challenges with faith, strength and courage, including tow almost fatal accidents, one involving a car crash and the other while riding a motorcycle with her beloved deceased husband Johnny, something they both enjoyed doing together. She was known for her ability to get the attention of the staff to make them aware of her needs, even though she could not speak, her verbal sounds, hand motions and use of her alphabetical board which she used to convey her message(s), made it clear she was cognizant, intelligent, and very much in tune with her surroundings. On top of this, her sense of humor made it easy for some of the older aides to understand and accommodate her needs. She was tenacious, yet gentle in her overall manner in understanding the differences in how some people treated her, and held no unpleasant feelings, but quickly made it known when she was treated unfairly. It was her tradition to celebrate both the 5h and 6th for her birthday. When recently asked the question, why did you celebrate both days, she just laughed! She was a trailblazer for the young women in her family in many ways including her high sense for fashion and her desire to have a professional career. Frances launched her professional career at what still remains to be the most Premier Healthcare institution in the world – Johns Hopkins Hospital. She established the legacy at Johns Hopkins Hospital for the family which led three of her nieces to launch their successful careers there as well. She was the youngest of seven children: preceding her in death was, a devoted sister, Margaret E. Jones; sister, Clare; brothers, Harry, Carrington and Earl. Frances is survived by: brother, Moses Berry; devoted cousin, Rudy and wife Regina Dillard; a host of nieces/ great-nieces, nephews/ great-nephews; two devoted friends for over 20 years, Mary Kay, who visited her frequently, and Mr. Hubert Spencer known as the “Chaplain” at Huber Memorial Church who called her his adopted sister. She will be missed but never forgotten.

Tributes

Frances J. Tucker

October 5, 1933 - May 4, 2016