James "Smiley" Luker

James “Smiley” Luker, 81 of Tuckasegee, passed away on Saturday, September 11, 2021. Smiley was born on April 15, 1940 to the late Allen and Lillie Luker in Jackson County.

Smiley enjoyed working with cattle, farming, and eating out at the local restaurants. He had a strong faith in God. Smiley loved his family, but most of all he loved spending time with his grandkids. Smiley will be missed by many.

Smiley is survived by his daughter, Dassy Fortner (Allen); sons, Jimmy Luker (Linda), and Mickey Luker (Kirk Wilkerson); grandchildren, Melissa Clayton, Becky Hall, Stephanie King, Miranda Massingale , Gracelyn Luker, Bailey Luker, Chris Wilburn, Megan Hall, Chance Mull, Luke Fortner, Averi Hall, Drew Hall, Meena Jones, Lillie Kate King, and Isla Rose King; daughter-in- law Jennifer Luker; brothers, Wallace Luker, Elmer Luker, Leamon Luker, and Thurman Luker. Several nieces and nephews also survive.

In addition to his parents, Smiley is preceded in death by three sisters and one brother.

A Funeral Service will be held at 1:00pm on Tuesday, September 14, 2021 at Appalachian Funeral Services. Rev. Jason Bryson and Rev. Jim Ed Powell will be officiating. The family will receive friends from 12:00-1:00pm prior to the service at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Shook Cemetery.

Pallbearers: Bailey Luker, Chance Mull, Chris Wilburn, Luke Fortner, Trevor Luker, Chad Luker, Dylan Reece, and Dawson Reece.

Appalachian Funeral Service is serving the Luker family.