Linda Marie Fudala-Tucker

PORT CHARLOTTE, Fla. — Our beloved Linda Marie Fudala-Tucker, age 71, a resident of Port Charlotte, Florida, formerly of Escanaba, passed away peacefully on January 22, 2024 after battling various health issues. Linda was born in Escanaba, on February 7, 1952 to parents August A. Fudala and Anita L. Carlson Fudala. She was baptized at St. Partick’s Church in Escanaba on April 27, 1952. The family soon moved to Bark River, where Linda was raised on the “Augie Fudala Farm.” Linda attended Sunnyside Elementary School in Bark River and was one of the last students to attend there before the new Bark River-Harris School was built. Linda graduated from Bay De Noc Community College in Escanaba and then went on to receive a bachelor’s degree in journalism from OBU in Shawnee, Oklahoma. She later moved to Florida where she began her career as a journalist for the Charlotte Sun and Sarasota Herald Tribune in 1980. In subsequent years, Linda and her husband, Jim, a professional journalist himself, started their own newspaper, “Boca Banner” in Boca Grande, Florida.

Linda is survived by her beloved, faithful-loving husband, Jim M. Tucker, of 20 years; stepchildren, Jay (Johnna) Tucker, Jamara (Matt) Schwan-Tucker, and Kendra Tucker; two grandchildren, Peyton (Caleb) Harper, and John Gregory; two great-grandchildren, Vivianne and Nora Harper who affectionately called her “Gandy.” She loved them greatly as they did her, and she was so blessed to be with them all this past Christmas.

She is also survived and deeply loved and cherished by sisters, Barbara (Jim) Atencio, Nancy (Lance) Hendershot, Mary (Jim) Fudala-Stillwagon; a very special Auntie Loretta (Fudala) Skrobiak and family of Bark River; several nieces, nephews, cousins, and many kindred spirits.

It’s hard to say goodbye (for now) to Linda, a woman whose heart beat with the rhythm of joyful, compassionate love. Fearlessly she faced her death, humbly knowing, that her eternal security and forgiveness rests solely on the merit of Jesus Christ’s perfect work on the cross and resurrection from the dead. “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes on Him, shall not perish but have everlasting life.” John 3:16 was one of her many favorite Bible promises, and Linda’s personal relationship with her Savior was (still is) the very essence of her being.

Linda’s impact was profound and far-reaching. As a talented writer, she had a unique gift for touching the hearts of people whom she had never met with her written words. Her theatrical performances and keen sense of humor were par excellence! During the holiday season, Linda took on the endearing role of Mrs. Claus, brightening the lives of countless children and adults alike. But Linda’s Mrs. Claus was more than just a character, it was a platform for her to share the transformative story of Jesus’ birth. Her children’s book, “Twas the Night of the Nativity” became a cherished tale that not only captivated young minds but also planted seeds of faith and understanding. Metaphorically, she wrapped herself around anyone in need offering comfort, support, and a listening ear. While still hearing the remaining echoes of her beautiful singing voice and jovial laughter, the celebration and legacy of Linda’s life will continue to resound in the chambers of our hearts.