Longtime Salem Resident Mary Jo Tucker Dies at 90

Tucker worked as an LPN in Las Vegas and Jacksonville before retiring in Salem

Mar. 24, 2026 at 3:25pm

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Mary Jo Tucker, a 90-year-old resident of Salem, Illinois, passed away peacefully at her home on March 21, 2026. Tucker was born in 1935 in La Clede, Illinois and worked as a licensed practical nurse (LPN) in Las Vegas and Jacksonville, Florida before moving back to Illinois and working at Bryan Manor until her retirement.

Why it matters

Tucker's life story reflects the experiences of many Americans who moved around the country for work opportunities, found companionship later in life, and settled down in their hometown after retiring. Her passing marks the end of an era for the close-knit community of Salem.

The details

After earning her LPN license in Las Vegas, Tucker worked there for several years before moving back to Illinois and working at the Robinson Hospital. She then relocated to Jacksonville, Florida and worked for a doctor for many years until she was widowed in her 40s. Tucker then moved back to Salem and worked at Bryan Manor until her retirement. She enjoyed the companionship of her cats and her longtime partner, Walter Anslem, with whom she traveled the world.

  • Mary Jo Tucker passed away on March 21, 2026.
  • Tucker was born on July 16, 1935 in La Clede, Illinois.

The players

Mary Jo Tucker

A 90-year-old resident of Salem, Illinois who worked as an LPN in Las Vegas and Jacksonville before retiring in Salem.

Walter Anslem

Tucker's longtime companion with whom she traveled and enjoyed her retirement years.

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The takeaway

Mary Jo Tucker's life story reflects the experiences of many Americans who moved around the country for work opportunities, found companionship later in life, and settled down in their hometown after retiring. Her passing marks the end of an era for the close-knit community of Salem.