Annabelle Y. Tucker

Annabelle Y. Tucker, 97, of Camillus, passed away Friday, April 25, 2025, at St. Camillus Health and Rehabilitation Center. Born in Chicago, she graduated from Western High School in Washington, D.C., and made Camillus her home in 1960. A woman of remarkable spirit, generosity, and creativity, she dedicated her life to education, the arts, and community service.

Annabelle was a devoted Camp Fire leader and Sunday school teacher, giving special attention to children with special needs. She also selflessly volunteered with the Red Cross bloodmobile and served as a "Pink Lady" at Community General Hospital and WCNY.

A passionate advocate for literacy, Annabelle taught and supervised with Literacy Volunteers, impacting countless lives with her patient and encouraging spirit. Her love of the arts led her to work extensively with local community theater groups. Annabelle served on the board of directors for both Syracuse Music Theater and Monday Morning Musical, where she played a pivotal role in obtaining a Steinway piano for the Everson Museum of Art. She was a stage manager for various SMT and Shattuck/New York City productions and also directed musicals at West Genesee Middle School, inspiring young performers for generations.

Annabelle was one of the founders and the first president of the Camillus Paint and Palette Guild, helping to create a vibrant and enduring artistic community in her hometown.

Annabelle was predeceased by her husband, Harry, in 2014; son, Russell, in 2013; and brother, Kenneth Yates.

Surviving are her son, Steven (Anne Kirchgessner) of Kensington, MD; daughter, Kathryn Tucker of Reston, VA; grandsons, Gregory (Anna Mussinelli) and Nicholas (Joshua Richter); great-grandson, Philip; and several nephews.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Maxwell Memorial Library, 14 W. Genesee St., Camillus, NY 13031.