Celestine Rucker

Celestine Smith Rucker, 68, of Gainesville, passed away April 23, 2023 at Denton Presbyterian Hospital surrounded by her family.

Celestine was born July 14, 1954 to James and Lillie Fields in Marietta, OK. Celestine attended Marietta schools from which she later graduated in 1972.

Celestine had the biggest heart and the most beautiful smile. She never met a stranger. Celestine loved to sew, cook, and spend time with family and friends. She was strong-willed and independent, always ready to help out in any way she could. She loved working in Customer Service, meeting different people daily. She was frequently awarded Employee of the Month and Year due to being an extraordinary employee at WinStar. Celestine made an impact on all she met and she will forever be missed.

Celestine is survived by: son Deone Smith of Denison, TX; daughter Celestine Marshall of Gainesville, TX; significant other Jose “Babe” Jennings of Gainesville, TX; siblings: Victor Fields (Julie Fields) of Marietta, OK, Felicia Fields of Trinity, TX, Claudette Coker of Ardmore, OK, and Christie Fields (Mark Williams) of Ardmore, OK; one grandson Lamontraie Smith; three granddaughters: Mykayla Minyard, Alicea Smith, and Sydney Musgrave; three great-grandchildren: Harmony Jones, Asher Jones, and Zaire Phillips; a host of nieces and nephews; and her beloved dogs Princess and Bella.

Celestine was preceded in death by: parents James and Lillie Fields; grandparents James (Tootsie) and Ethel Fields; grandparents Frank and Lacey Smith; brother Willie (Buddy) Fields; and sisters: Sharon Fields Linzy, Priscilla Douglass, and Annette Fields.

A memorial service is scheduled for 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 6, 2023, at St. James CME Church, Gainesville.