V. Gregg Rucker

V. Gregg Rucker was born on June 24, 1964 to James & the late Joann Rucker in Orangeburg County, South Carolina. An only child, Gregg was doted on & much loved from birth. A country boy through and through, Gregg reveled in hunting, fishing, and exploring the back roads of the state he loved.

Gregg was an avid weightlifter & committed the bulk of his adult life to working out -- a favorite pastime. Gregg was a loyal fan of all things Gamecocks sports -- despite their sometimes being long stretches of disappointment with those programs' performances. Above all of the Gamecocks sports programs, Gregg was a rabid fan of the Lady Gamecocks basketball team and its coach, Dawn Staley.

Gregg developed a fondness & affinity for chicken farming. He would stop to gaze at any pond he deemed ripe for fishing. In recent years he was most at peace fishing at his Uncle Don’s pond.

Although Gregg was no longer an active hunter, he still took in every hunting story told as if he were there, he always sought out prime hunting areas, and reminisced often about the joys of hunting & fishing. Among his fondest memories are those of growing up tagging along with his beloved uncles: Larry (Cathy) Callahan, Don (Libby) Callahan, & Glen (Missy) Callahan who helped him hone his fishing and hunting skills.

Despite giving his parents grief when he was asked to assist with gardening chores while growing up, Gregg loved flowers & in recent years began planting & enjoying plants on his own -- an adult pursuit that never failed to make his father chuckle given Gregg's resistance to such as a child.

Gregg took great interest in all things weather-related. So much so, that in the years preceding his passing, he never seemed to plan a road trip in the absence of a looming natural disaster -- tornadoes, snow storms, & hurricanes seemed to beckon him to travel.

Although he never wore his emotions on his sleeve, Gregg was a gregarious person. Gregg made friends easily and joked even more readily. He had a soft spot for anyone who was lonely, elderly, or isolated.

Left to grieve until we are reunited with Gregg are: his wife, Tara (Ti) Rucker, his father, James (Tina) Rucker, his daughter, Haley Rucker, and his granddaughters, Maci & Sage. Gregg is also mourned by his brother from "another mother" -- Greg Laird -- his gym family, and a host of friends and associates from across the years.

Culler-McAlhany Funeral Home (www.cullermcalahany.com) is assisting the family.