Patricia Rucker

Patricia Ann Rucker, affectionately known as “Pat,” was born on November 9, 1942, in Nashville, Tennessee, to the late Tommie Russell and Jimmie Rucker-Trimble. She peacefully departed this life on July 11, 2025, at the age of 82, leaving behind a legacy of vibrant living, heartfelt compassion, and undeniable resilience.

Pat was a devoted mother to two children: the late James Alexander Cox III and her daughter, Dr. Nicole Cox-Jordan (Christopher Jordan). She poured her love, strength, and wisdom into her children and always made sure they felt supported and protected.

At an early age, Pat gave her life to Christ and joined New Hope Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Reverend T.H. Easley. She was educated in the Davidson County School System and graduated from Pearl High School in the Class of 1960.

Following graduation, Patricia embarked on a bold journey northward with her older sister Bessie and her best friend Mary Nell. They were searching for new opportunities that would keep the 3 of them together. However, the available opportunities led the three of them to different parts of the Northeast, with Pat ultimately landing in upstate New York. Being separated from Bessie and Mary Nell was not part of her plan, so after 2 years, Pat headed back home to Nashville.

Throughout the 1960s, Pat immersed herself in Nashville’s vibrant nightlife and music scene, particularly along the historic Jefferson Street corridor. She lent her soulful voice as a background singer to a number of renowned artists performing on the famed “Chitlin’ Circuit.” She was notably featured on recordings with Larry Birdsong, contributing to the musical legacy of a pivotal time in Nashville’s Black music history. It was during this time that she met the late great Jimi Hendrix. Together with Hendrix’s friends and bandmates, Pat enjoyed experiences of a lifetime, including travelling to Maui, Hawaii and being at the infamous Woodstock festival of 1969.

She had an adventurous and fun-loving spirit. She proudly road with a local motorcycle club, the Low Riders, and was a member of a CB radio club (her handle was “Gypsy Woman”). And you better believe when she was out and about, she turned heads with her impeccable fashion, ever-changing hairstyles, and bold, glamorous makeup. She was, in every sense, a showstopper.

Pat’s professional life was defined by her compassion and dedication to service. For decades, she worked with Metro Social Services, where she provided vital transportation services to senior citizens across the city. Even after retiring in 1996, her desire to stay engaged led her to continue working as a dispatcher for Medic Transportation, a role she held until her health began to decline in 2012.

Pat’s spirit was magnetic. She could light up any room with her infectious smile, sharp wit, and boundless humor. She was fearless, deeply intuitive, and unapologetically authentic. Her loyalty was unwavering, and she had a unique way of making everyone feel like family.

Pat was preceded in death by her beloved siblings: Joe Rucker, Sr., Caryoln Pendergrass, Alice Firoul, and Bessie Hester. She is survived by her devoted daughter, Dr. Nicole Cox-Jordan (Christopher Jordan); her bonus daughter, Pastor Juli Desirae Allensworth of Indianapolis, IN; her cherished grandchildren: Austin, DeSean, and Lourdes; great-grandchildren: Legend, Austin, and Lennox; and her beloved dog, Mack, who was her faithful companion until the very end. She is also remembered by her doting nieces: Shirley, Cynthia, Shireece, Lisa, and Joy; a host of other nieces, nephews and cousins; and treasured friends including Bennye Dobbins, Mabellean Lively, Sherry Wilson Stewart, and Dr. Phyllis Freeman.

Patricia Ann Rucker lived boldly, cared deeply, and left behind a legacy of love, strength, and unforgettable memories. Though her voice has been stilled, her song will echo in our hearts forever.