Former Bethany President Passes, Remembered for Dedication to the Christian Church and Higher Education

BETHANY, W.Va. – Bethany College’s current and former faculty, staff, and community are mourning the loss of former Bethany President William E. Tucker. Tucker passed away on Friday, Oct. 14, at Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Fort Worth at the age of 90. Tucker served as president of the college from 1976 to 1979.  

Born on June 22, 1932, in Charlotte, N.C., Tucker earned his divinity degree in 1956 from Texas Christian University. He then received his master’s and doctoral degrees from Yale University. Tucker taught history at TCU in 1966 and became the dean at Brite Divinity School from 1971 to 1976 before coming to Bethany.  

“The Bethany College Community expresses our deepest condolences to the family and friends of our former President, Dr. William (Bill) Tucker,” says Bethany College President Dr. Jamie Caridi. “We are grateful for his leadership of Bethany College from 1976 to 1979, and his lifetime of service and ministry within higher education and the Christian Church.  His legacy will continue to have an impact on our community for many years to come.”   

After leaving Bethany, Tucker returned to TCU as chancellor in 1979. He went on to retire from his position after 19 years of service.