08/22/2026
Extract from the Tribute to Mrs Yvonne Cecilia Tucker given by the President, Mrs June Driscol
It is with heavy hearts, but also with profound gratitude, that we celebrate the extraordinary life of Yvonne Cecilia Tucker—our founding member, first president, beloved alumna, mentor, and cherished friend.
Yvonne was a woman of vision, determination, compassion, and remarkable strength. She believed deeply in education, service, community, and, above all, in the power of people to lift one another.
Born on October 24, 1961, Yvonne began her journey at Saint Anne’s Primary School and later St Joseph’s Secondary School, Brookfields, Freetown from 1972 to 1977, where she developed many of the friendships and memories that remained dear to her throughout her life. Yvone was in Mighty Assumpta house and had fond memories of her Latin Teacher.
Yvonne was a visionary. She did not simply dream about bringing ex pupils together. She made it happen. In 2006, Yvonne spearheaded the formation of the SJSS Alumni Association Southeastern Branch. She became the Chapter’s first President, serving from 2006 to 2008, and through perseverance, sacrifice, and an extraordinary sense of purpose, she kept the flame burning for future generations.
Her leadership did not end with her presidency. She continued to serve in numerous leadership positions, chaired committees, served on the Sponsorship Committee, and most recently representative at the 160th Anniversary Committee.
Yvonne was passionate about Saint Joseph’s and proudly championed everything that represented the school she loved. She reminded us that our responsibility did not end with social gatherings. Through initiatives such as our Acts of Service Campaign, including feeding the homeless and supporting those in need back home, Yvonne helped reinforce the idea that our alumni family could be a force for good.
Even in her final days, Yvonne was thinking about the association and looking forward to our annual retreat at the place she loved so much—a place where she had practically claimed her own special room. It is difficult to imagine returning there without her presence.
Yvonne had an extraordinary ability to connect people. She was, in many ways, an encyclopedia of resources and relationships. If you had a problem, Yvonne knew someone who could help. If she didn't know the answer herself, she knew someone who knew someone who did.
Where others saw an obstacle, Yvonne saw a possibility. Where others saw a problem, she looked for a solution.
Yvonne was truly a mother to many of us. She nurtured and guided but also corrected us when necessary. Her generosity was not limited to words. She gave her time, her resources, her knowledge, her connections, and her heart.
And that was her legacy - She created opportunities. She opened doors. She served. She gave.
We will miss her cooking, her laughter, her phone calls, her ideas, her presence but most of all, we will miss the woman who never stopped believing in us.
Yvonne, thank you for your vision and leadership.
You never gave up on the Saint Joseph’s Secondary school, and we will never give up hope.
We extend our sincere and heartfelt sympathy to your loving husband Eddie, and to the Akpan and Tucker families. We pray God grant them strength, comfort, and peace.
Rest in perfect peace Yvonne.
You will be greatly missed but never, ever be forgotten.
~June Driscol
