Drusilla Anna Tuck

Drusilla Anna Tuck, affectionately known as Dru, passed away on July 8, 2025, in Elkridge, Maryland. Despite her shyness and quiet demeanor, Dru possessed a vibrant spirit that came alive around those she loved. Her life was defined by devotion to her family, lifelong friendships, a meaningful career, and quiet, enduring passions. An avid reader since childhood, Dru found joy in literature, alongside cooking and baking, exploring genealogy, studying Buddhist teachings, listening to music on vinyl, watching films, and enjoying movie trivia. Her mind was curious, and her heart expansive.

She was born on July 27, 1943, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the eldest of three sisters. Education played a central role in her life, beginning at the historic Thomas Dunlap School, continuing through Sayre Junior High School, and culminating in her graduation from Overbrook High School in 1961. Dru began her professional career as a Data Entry Operator for the Naval Yard and later at the Institute for Scientific Information. She eventually found her professional home at the Philadelphia Inquirer/Daily News, where she spent many fulfilling years contributing her skills and dedication.

Outside of work, Dru's kitchen was her creative haven. Her baking talents were legendary among her loved ones, with signature favorites including her New York-style cheesecake, gingerbread cake, cinnamon-swirl coffee bundt cake, decadent chocolate cakes, and aromatic spice cakes. She was equally skilled in savory dishes, with fan favorites like chicken pot pie, cheeseburger pies, chicken and broccoli, and Chinese beef stir-fry. Her famous Thanksgiving rolls became a family tradition—so beloved that even in her absence, her sisters once squabbled over them, a memory that still sparks laughter.

Dru also had a passion for family history. She could spend hours at the dining table or in her favorite overstuffed chair, poring over genealogy records, old photos, and stories of generations past. A lifelong fan of the small and silver screens, she was especially captivated by the 1987 Beauty and the Beast series starring Ron Perlman and Linda Hamilton. She was deeply moved by the music of Purple Rain, curated an impressive vinyl collection, and collected African elephant figurines—symbols of wisdom and good fortune.

Dru is survived by her two devoted sons, Ron (Carmen) and Daryl (Natalie), and six grandchildren: Erica, Chanel, Daryl, Khiree, Ronald, and Kheira. She was a beloved older sister to Debra “Debbie” Davenger and the late Alyce Virginia Crawford, and a cherished aunt to nephews William and Maurice Crawford. Her extended family, including cousins and dear friends such as Gloria White and Carolyne Pierce-Bond, will remember her with love and admiration.

She was preceded in death by her parents, James J. Davenger and Anna Bernice Davenger; her former husband, Ronald Everett Tuck; and her beloved sister, Alyce Virginia Crawford.

Though small in stature, Dru’s presence was mighty. She left an indelible mark on all who knew her, radiating warmth, quiet strength, and fierce loyalty. She could always be counted on for sage advice, witty banter, nostalgic storytelling, a soul-comforting laugh, and something sweet from the kitchen. She lived her life her way—with heart, humor, and humility—and her memory will forever live on in the hearts of those she touched.