George Holding: “Last year, we mourned the loss of a true servant of our community, Garland Scott Tucker, Jr. Garland dedicated his life…”

“Last year, we mourned the loss of a true servant of our community, Garland Scott Tucker, Jr. Garland dedicated his life to sharing his love of Christ. In family life, in business, and in his community, Garland was grounded and guided by his faith. Garland was born in Raleigh in 1919. After graduating from UNC Chapel Hill, he joined the family business, Tucker Furniture, in 1941 and moved to Wilson the next year to manage the eastern North Carolina stores. He eventually became president of the company, a position he would hold until his retirement in 1985. In 1954, he joined the board of directors at BB&T and served as chairman from 1979 to 1987. During that time, BB&T would grow from a community bank into a major player throughout the Southeast. Beyond a very successful business career, Garland was a true family man. He married Jean Barnes Wilson in 1946, and over the course of their 67-year marriage, they had four children, Garland III, Edwin, Sarah, and Macon, who in turn blessed Garland with 15 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Garland's life was marked by his commitment to sharing his faith with others and serving those in need. The primary focus of his civic engagement was his support for Gideons International and the Salvation Army. Through both organizations, he was able to improve his local community and the world at large.…”