DeWayne W. Tucker

Robert A. Waters Funeral Home

Obituaries | The Tube City Almanac | April 19, 2026

DeWayne W. Tucker, 86, of Duquesne, PA, was born December 19, 1939, in Duquesne, PA. A lifelong resident and unwavering champion of his hometown, DeWayne leaves behind a legacy defined by fierce advocacy, deep love for his community, and an unshakable commitment to its children.

Born to the late Sterling Tucker and Gladys Crowder-Tucker, DeWayne was a proud graduate of the Duquesne City School District, where he lettered in football and track and earned a football scholarship to Allen University in Columbia, South Carolina.

DeWayne’s professional life reflected both leadership and perseverance. He began working at Kennywood Park, where he became the first Afro American ride manager. He later worked at U.S. Steel’s Duquesne Works until it began to close. Answering a higher call to serve, he joined the City of Duquesne Police Department. Rising to the rank of Lieutenant, where he served with distinction for 25 years before retiring. Even in retirement, his commitment endured as an active member of F.O.P. Lodge #91.

It was in the life of the community, especially its school and youth where DeWayne’s impact was most deeply felt.

For nine consecutive four-year terms and service as president on the Duquesne City School Board, DeWayne became known as the district’s most passionate and outspoken advocate. He fought tirelessly for students, often with a conviction so strong it moved him to tears. He attended meetings, games, and practices with unmatched dedication, standing firmly for what he believed Duquesne’s children deserved. Even after choosing to step down from the school board, the community’s faith in him was so strong that he was re-elected as a write-in candidate which was a testament to the trust and admiration he earned.

To many, he was more than a board member and local police officer, he was a mentor, a protector, and a constant presence. Whether traveling to away games, cheering on the sideline, or offering guidance, DeWayne treated every child as if they were his own. His home reflected that devotion, filled with trophies, photographs, and memories of his children, the students, and teams he so proudly supported, and a community he loved.

DeWayne was an honorary board member of the Duquesne/West Mifflin Boys and Girls Club and a board member of Life’s Journey Mentoring Program. A lifelong member of Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church, he faithfully served on the Board of Trustees for 38 years and was honored with the title chairman emeritus.

At his core, DeWayne was Duquesne’s greatest cheerleader, never afraid to speak up, never willing to back down, and never losing faith in the potential of its people.

DeWayne departed this life on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at Grandview Estates in Elizabeth, PA. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by sisters Dorothy Sayles, Frances Mulgado, Lorraine Ross, and Rosie Tucker, brothers Bobby “BT” Tucker, and Sterling Tucker. Sisters and Brothers-in-law Joyce Tucker, Elizabeth Tucker, and Robert Mulgaldo.

Left to cherish his memory is his devoted wife of 58 years, Maureen Burkley from McKeesport, PA; his sons, DeWayne Wes Tucker of Houston, TX, and Desmond Wade Tucker of West Mifflin, PA; his cherished grandchildren, Aubrey (Anthony), Tyler, and Sydney; and his great-grandson, Jaydin. He is also survived by his brothers, Larry (Thelma) Tucker of Homestead, PA, Ronald Tucker of Upper Marlboro, MD, sister-in-law Elaine Tucker, and many loved, nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and friends. 

https://www.watersfuneralhome.net/notices/Wilbert-Tucker

Friends will be received for visitation on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, from 2:00 PM – 8:00 PM. Memorial services will be held Wednesday, April 22, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church, 17 Cochran Street, Duquesne, PA 15110. 

Interment to follow at McKeesport & Versailles Cemetery.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Wilbert, please visit our floral store.

Originally published April 19, 2026.

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