Rucker, Paula Annette
Paula Annette Rucker, age 58, of Pearisburg, Virginia, passed away on October 25, 2026. She was born on September 2, 1968, in Roanoke, Virginia, and lived a life marked by love for her family, a warm spirit, and a deep appreciation for the simple joys that brought people together.
Paula was the cherished daughter of Celosia Ann Stainback Johnston and the late Sammy Rucker. She was also lovingly raised by her step-father, Charles Johnston, who was an important part of her life.
She is survived by her daughters, Ashley Sutphin and her husband Christopher “Levi” Sutphin, and Alexis Wilson. Paula was a proud and devoted grandmother to Emily Lashell Sutphin, Christopher Levi Sutphin, Colton Lavaughn Sutphin, Winter Aurora Sutphin, Jazlynn Shrader, Malcolm Shrader, Lyric Shrader, and Kingston Shrader, each of whom brought great happiness to her life.Paula is also survived by her brothers, Robert Rucker and his wife Kelly, Garland Rucker (Robin Hale), stepbrother Chuckie Johnston and his wife Kendra, and her 2 stepsisters, Sally Goode and Sarah Blackwell. She shared a special bond with her best friend and sister, Allison Falls, whose companionship meant so much to her throughout the years.
She was preceded in death by her father, Sammy Rucker, and her sisters, Sharon Lowery and her husband Bill Lowery, and Debbie Blankenship, and a special nephew she loved dearly Sambo.
Family was the center of Paula’s world, and she took great pride in being present for the people she loved. She especially treasured time spent with her grandchildren, whether swimming with them, enjoying sleepovers, or decorating for Christmas together. These moments were among her happiest, and she embraced them with a joy that will be remembered by all who shared them with her. Her love for her family was steady and unconditional, and she found her greatest fulfillment in the laughter, closeness, and memories they created together.Paula also enjoyed gambling, cooking, and listening to music, interests that reflected her spirited personality and her ability to find enjoyment in everyday life. She had a way of making ordinary moments feel special, and those who knew her will remember her for her warmth, her presence, and the love she gave so freely. Her family and friends will forever hold close the many memories of her kindness, her humor, and the strength she carried throughout her life.
The family will receive friends at a time of visitation on Wednesday, October 28, 2026 from 12:00 PM until 1:00 PM in Kendall Funeral Home. A funeral service will be conducted on Wednesday, October 28, 2026 at 1:00 PM. A guestbook is available to send condolences to the family by visiting www.kendallfuneralhome.com. The staff of Kendall Funeral Home are honored to serve the Rucker family.
