DJ Clark Kent, an icon in the worlds of hip-hop and sneakers, has died.

“It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of the beloved Rodolfo A. Franklin, known to the world as DJ Clark Kent,” a statement shared Friday on his Instagram read. “Clark passed away Thursday evening surrounded by his devoted wife Kesha, daughter Kabriah and son Antonio.”

The statement continued, “Clark quietly and valiantly fought a three year battle with Colon Cancer, while continuing to share his gifts with the world. The family is grateful for everyone’s love, support and prayers during this time and ask for privacy as they process this immense loss.”

Franklin — known as “God’s Favorite DJ” — produced countless hits for rap icons, including Jay-Z, The Notorious B.I.G., Rakim and The Fugees, among countless others. His accolades in footwear, too, were remarkable.

Aside from being a go-to expert for all things sneakers and sneaker culture, he was a top-tier collaborator. His collabs included coveted work with Nike (including the “112” pack, which he told FN in 2019 was his proudest work in sneakers), as well as New Balance and K-Swiss. He also was responsible for multiple avant garde collaborations, including the iC1 sneaker he created with mattress company Serta in 2019 and his luxury take on the classic Adidas Forum High with audio software company Serato in 2022.

In an email sent to FN, Nike offered a statement on the passing of the sneaker legend.

“We are deeply saddened by the passing of our dear friend and true cultural icon, DJ Clark Kent. At Nike, we were honored to collaborate with Clark on projects that celebrated not only his deep love for sneakers but also his unwavering dedication to pushing creative boundaries and elevating culture. His impact on the world of sneakers is beyond measure, with an influence that spans the globe and generations. Clark’s legacy will forever inspire future talent, leaving a lasting mark on our industry. Our hearts go out to Clark’s family, friends, and all those touched by his extraordinary talent, passion, and kindness. His presence will be greatly missed,” the brand said via statement.

Amid the celebrations for hip-hop’s 50th anniversary in August 2023, streetwear legend and Walker Wear founder April Walker spoke with FN about DJ Clark Kent, and said he’s one of the most influential people ever when it comes to sneakers.

“His passion for kicks culture has always been authentic. Clark Kent is from the early days, and he’s had such staying power. He’s been a tastemaker when it comes to kicks. His passion for sneakers has always been consistent, his voice has always been consistent, and you feel his authenticity. That energy creates confirmation in the culture, in the kick game,” Walker told FN. “He has served and consulted companies, and if you look at his social media game, we can all see how passionate he is and lends his voice to what he believes in for sneakers. That authenticity will always be the staying power. And the Air Force 1, it has just stood the test of time, and I give Clark credit for amplifying it. There are so many people who wear Air Force 1s, but Clark, it’s part of his uniform.”

About the Author

Peter Verry is the Senior News and Features Editor for Athletic and Outdoor at Footwear News. He oversees coverage of the two fast-paced and ultracompetitive markets, which includes conducting in-depth interviews with industry leaders and writing stories on sneakers and outdoor shoes. He is a lifelong sneaker addict (and shares his newest purchases via @peterverry on Instagram) and spends most of his free time on a trail. He holds an M.A. in journalism from Hofstra University and can be reached at peter.verry@footwearnews.com.

Christopher Ciccone, who left a distinctive mark on various creative industries and the footwear business, died at the age of 62 after a battle with cancer, according to a statement from his representative to Variety.  Known for his artistic diversity and being Madonna’s brother — serving as her backup dancer, stylist and artistic director —  Ciccone carved his own niche, culminating in a career spotlighted by his unique approach to design.

Ciccone’s ventures ranged from directing artistic concert tours, interior design, painting and designing furniture. He also authored a New York Times bestselling-memoir “Life with My Sister Madonna.” Amidst these accomplishments, his journey in the footwear industry included a debut of The Ciccone Collection on Sept. 14, 2012 at London Fashion Week. “Obviously, there will be a number of people wondering what the hell I am doing [designing] shoes,” Ciccone told FN in a 2012 interview ahead of London Fashion Week. “It’s a lot of pressure. Madonna will always be my sister.”

The collection, produced by Slovakia-based Novesta, featured rubber shoes and canvas sneakers, which he said was inspired by one of his wingtip shoes.  “I started thinking about using different materials to create classic styles,” he told FN. “Fashion has been a part of my world since Madonna started on stage. I did my best to imprint my artistic visions, the way I paint and design furniture.”

His approach embedded fashion with function — a testament to his belief in accessibility. “I was dead set against creating something that cost $500 a pair,” he said. “I won’t even spend that much on a pair of shoes. It’s definitely a mid-level brand that is not out of reach for most people.”

He added that he had plans to expand it into a full lifestyle label, including accessories and home goods. “I purposely chose the name The Ciccone Collection so as not to pigeonhole it into just footwear,” he said. “This is bigger than that and there is a lot more to come.”

It’s been 30 years since the murder of Nicole Brown Simpson. Her ex-husband, O.J. Simpson, was later convicted for the crime. Now, the late former footfall star’s FBI file has been released and it highlights the lengths investigators went to in studying the footprint found at the crime scene.

It’s widely known that a shoeprint left in the ground matched up to a Bruno Magli shoe. The piece of evidence was so crucial that FBI agents actually flew to Italy to analyze a replica of the Italian shoe. The feds also assembled a sweeping list of all of Bruno Magli’s stores in the States. Photos from the newly released file show them cross-referencing the shoeprint at the murder scene with the soles of a replica shoe.

Unfortunately, prosecutors were unable to convince the jury that the shoe print belonged to Simpson and the shoes from the scene were never found.

OJ Simpson Trial and the Bruno Magli Shoes

On Oct. 3, 1995, a California jury found former football star O.J. Simpson not guilty of the murder of his ex-wife, Nicole Brown Simpson, and her friend, Ron Goldman. People all across the country were tuned in to what was dubbed the “The Trial of the Century” to hear the verdict read aloud in court.

To this day, people are still talking about all the key factors, from the infamous gloves he tried on in court to the bloody size 12 Bruno Magli shoe print left behind at the crime scene. O.J. Simpson happens to wear a size 12. Whoever wore the shoes in question chose the Italian shoe brand’s Lorenzo model.

To address that question, the prosecution called Bloomingdale’s associate buyer for men’s shoes, Sam Poser, who, during much of the early 1990s, advised wealthy socialites and celebrities on the must-have shoes of the season.

“He was very nice,” Poser previously told FN about meeting OJ Simpson. “He bought a bunch of dress casual stuff — he wanted something that was comfortable. But I remembered what he didn’t buy more so than I remembered selling him that particular [Bruno Magli] shoe.”

Bloomingdale’s did not have bar-code scanning software in the early ’90s that would prove unequivocally what pair of shoes Simpson bought that day. So, while Poser recalled that he had shown Simpson a size 12 Bruno Magli Lorenzo boot—the same size and style that left prints at the crime scene—he could not say for sure whether Simpson ultimately bought that pair.

“Eventually, after the [criminal] trial was over, they found the photograph of O.J. wearing the Bruno Magli shoe at a Bills game,” Poser told FN. “In the civil case, which I was deposed for, they stipulated that he was indeed wearing those shoes. Had they found that photograph prior to the criminal trial, that could have been a game changer.”

The shoes were not found during the criminal case proceedings. Simpson denied wearing the luxury shoes.

Over the years, the shoes have been the subject of discussions on TV shows and later on social media. “They said oj had bought a pair of those shoes but the shoes were missing. it is logical that oj simpson killed Nicole brown simpson and ron goldman,” tweeted @barbara37133046 in 2018, adding, “I believe oj killed them.”

In Simpson’s deposition for the civil case that followed the “not guilty” verdict, Simpson said he would never have worn “those ugly-ass shoes.” “Wait, so O.J. Simpson really said ‘I would never wear those ugly ass shoes’ to the shoe print at the crime scene?” tweeted @AngelaOceguera in 2018.

During the civil trial a photograph was found of Simpson wearing the Bruno Magli shoes at a Bills game. Ultimately, the court found him liable for the deaths and he was ordered to pay $25 million in punitive damages.

A CNN report published in 1997 said sales for the brand climbed 30 percent year-over-year during the trial, a revenue jump undoubtedly connected to the infamous case.

Update: May 26, 2024

The family of the late golfer Grayson Murray revealed in a statement that he died by suicide.

“We have spent the last 24 hours trying to come to terms with the fact that our son is gone. It’s surreal that we not only have to admit it to ourselves, but that we also have to acknowledge it to the world. It’s a nightmare,” Eric and Terry Murray, the parents of Grayson Murray, said in a statement via the PGA Tour.

The statement continued, “We would like to thank the PGA Tour and the entire world of golf for the outpouring of support. Life wasn’t always easy for Grayson, and although he took his own life, we know he rests peacefully now.”

The family concluded the statement by asking for people to respect their privacy as they work through this tragedy, and to honor Grayson Murray by being kind to one another.

What We Reported on May 25, 2024

Grayson Murray, a two-time PGA Tour winner, has died. He was 30.

Multiple reports surfaced Saturday afternoon confirming the death of Murray, who withdrew from the 2024 Charles Schwab Challenge on Friday due to an illness. His passing was confirmed on Twitter by talent representation and sports marketing agency GSE Worldwide, as well as PGA Tour.

“We were devastated to learn — and are heartbroken to share — that PGA Tour player Grayson Murray passed away this morning. I am at a loss for words,” PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan said in a statement via PGATour.com. “The PGA Tour is a family, and when you lose a member of your family, you are never the same. We mourn Grayson and pray for comfort for his loved ones.”

Counselors will be available at the this week’s PGA Tour and Korn Ferry Tour events, the PGA Tour confirmed. Also, the PGA Tour said Monahan will attend the Charles Schwab Challenge and will share more information when it is available.

Murray was a Mizuno athlete, and in January won the 2024 Sony Open in Hawaii, his first event win as a brand ambassador.

Mizuno addressed Murray’s passing on social media. “We are beyond saddened to learn the news of Grayson Murray’s passing,” the brand wrote in a statement via Instagram. “Grayson has been a joy to work with and to be around since joining the Mizuno family this past year. The entire Mizuno Team will miss him greatly. Our thoughts and prayers are with Grayson’s loved ones during this difficult time.”

Aside from winning the 2024 Sony Open, Murray, who turned pro in 2015, also won the 2017 Barbasol Championship. Prior to turning pro, he golfed for Wake Forest University, East Carolina University and Arizona State University.

About the Author

Peter Verry is the Senior News and Features Editor for Athletic and Outdoor at Footwear News. He oversees coverage of the two fast-paced and ultracompetitive markets, which includes conducting in-depth interviews with industry leaders and writing stories on sneakers and outdoor shoes. He is a lifelong sneaker addict (and shares his newest purchases via @peterverry on Instagram) and spends most of his free time on a trail. He holds an M.A. in journalism from Hofstra University and can be reached at peter.verry@footwearnews.com.

March 7, 2024: Robert Adams-Ghee, chief financial and administrative officer at Soles4Souls, passed away on Tuesday, March 5, 2024, following a sudden illness.

Adams-Ghee joined Soles4Souls in 2016 but had dedicated his entire professional career to nonprofit financial management, including 25 years at Nashville CARES. He was beloved by his finance and administration team and the rest of the Soles4Souls staff.

“Robert was an incredible CFO for Soles4Souls,” Buddy Teaster, president and CEO of Soles4Souls, said in a statement on Wednesday. “Not only did he bring the financial discipline we needed almost eight years ago, he led just as much with his heart. The work we do really mattered to him, in a personal and visceral way. Robert was a good man who could be tough when he needed to be and vulnerable when it counted. We will miss him for a very long time.”

Adams-Ghee was also very involved in important LGBTQ work in the Nashville area in the 1990s. Among other notable accomplishments, he was a founding member of Planet Nashville, a nonprofit that sends volunteers to do HIV fieldwork in Africa. It was there that he was honored with the creation of the Robert Adams-Ghee Global HIV/AIDS Education Scholarship.

More recently, Adams-Ghee enjoyed teaching at the University of Phoenix where he was named Faculty of the Year in 2015. He is survived by his husband Jesse.

Jan. 8, 2024: Daniel A. Miller of Falmouth, Maine, passed away on Dec. 30, 2023, at the age of 91. Born in Lynn, Mass., in 1932, Miller’s lengthy career in the footwear industry spanned more than six decades.

After graduating from Bowdoin College and serving as a commissioned officer in the US Army in 1956, Miller joined his father, Hyman Miller, at Moxie Shoe Company and spent years traveling the world for the business until it was sold to Shoe Corporation of America. In the early 1970s, Miller and his father founded TransAmerica Footwear in Maine, importing dress shoes from Europe and Latin America.

Then in 1975, his career hit a major turning point, when his maternal uncle, Harold Alfond — founder of Dexter Shoe Company — offered him the position of territory sales manager for the Pacific Northwest, based in Seattle. After transforming the Northwest region into Dexter’s top sales territory, Miller assumed the role of president of sales and marketing for the company and relocated back to Boston in 1985.

Under his tenure as president, the business grew to more than $250 million in revenue, with a base of wholesale customers around the world. Though he retired from Dexter in 1993 following its sale and reorganization, Miller continued to advise U.S. and international manufacturers, particularly in Hong Kong and China. He only fully retired at the age of 89.

According to his family, Miller will be remembered for “his dedication, integrity, professionalism, humor, and love for his family, as well as the many warm relationships he fostered in the footwear industry around the world.”

He is survived by his wife, Diane; sons Andrew (Gym), Thomas (Susie), Matthew (Julie) and Jonathan (Joy); grandchildren Benjamin, Sofia, Mya, Ari and Gabriel; former wife Vivian, and many dear cousins and friends.

There was simply no one like Iris Apfel.

The unmistakable style icon — who got her start as a “copy girl” at WWD and became a global fashion phenomenon in her 80s — died on Friday at her home in Palm Beach, Fla. She was 102.

While age was certainly a factor in the admiration for Apfel, it was her gumption, tenacity and, of course, cool sense of style that kept the world hanging on her every word.

“I am not the usual fashionista. I don’t follow trends. I’m not one of the mob. I do my own thing. And I like to get that point across,” Apfel said in a 2022 FN cover story in which she was photographed wearing a bright blue Tom Ford feather coat and a choker necklace with matching cuff bracelets. “I never felt I had to conform. I didn’t have to conform. I wanted to do everything but. So why should I? I wouldn’t be having anything new to say.”

Iris Barrel Apfel was undeniably ubiquitous. always living by her mantra: “More is more, less is a bore.”

Apfel founded her textile firm Old World Weavers with her husband Carl Apfel, working with the White House to oversee various restoration projects for nine presidencies — and later for signing as a model with IMG at 97.

From 6-year-olds to grandparents, Apfel’s fan base was wide-ranging. Jennifer Ash Rudick, one of the producers of the documentary “Iris,” noted things started to snowball for the self-proclaimed “geriatric starlet” in 2005 after the Metropolitan Museum of Art featured an exhibition on her extensive fashion archives. Interest sparked again when the documentary came out in 2014. 

“People are now wearing big glasses again [because of her],” said Rudick, when Apfel received FN’s Icon Award at the 2016 FNAAs.

Apfel’s fans were both inspired to copy her signature look (spectacles, an armful of colorful bracelets, a pile of bold necklaces, topped off with a brightly colored faux fur) and emboldened to express their identity through fashion. 

But beyond her unique fashion sensibility, it was her unwavering work ethic that set her apart. “You’ve got to work. Everybody’s got to work and produce something,” Apfel told FN in 2022.

While she could count countless achievements throughout her illustrious career, the one role that she was most passionate about? Her job as professor at The University of Texas at Austin.

One day before her most recent FN photo shoot in 2022, her class of 16 students arrived wide-eyed for their own moment in front of the camera with FN. From afar, Apfel called in to check on “her little chickens,” as she adoringly called them, as they embarked on the 10th UT in NYC experience. Their faces immediately lit up with excitement when she called — and with good reason.

Apfel was more than a guest speaker in the program. She curated an annual New York trip for the students, giving them face time with major fashion executives and designers — all curated by Apfel.

She admitted the curriculum came together haphazardly. “I really didn’t know what the devil I was doing [when we started]. I just plunged in,” she recalled. “That’s how I do everything. I thought, ‘If I’m starting, I might as well start at the top.’ So I called everybody that I knew was doing something interesting and upbeat in the field and it took off like wildfire.”

One of her enduring lessons passed on to her students? Her sage advice about style. “Style is attitude, attitude, attitude,” said Apfel. “Style, from my point of view, cannot be learned. It has to be cultivated, but it has to be in your DNA.”

—With contributions by Nikara Johns and Eugenia Richman

Iris Apfel Through the Years: Remembering the Late Style Icon in Photos

View Gallery 34 Images

Update: Feb. 12, 2023

Nike has issued a statement on the tragic death of Kenya-born long distance runner Kelvin Kiptum.

“We are heartbroken by the tragic passing of Kelvin Kiptum and his coach, Gervais Hakizimana,” Nike wrote in a statement emailed to FN. “Not only was Kelvin a beloved member of the Nike family, he was an inspiration to countless athletes and fans around the world. While he was just getting started, Kelvin’s impact on the sport of running will forever be remembered. We extend our deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of Kelvin and Gervais.” 

What We Reported on Feb. 11, 2023

Kelvin Kiptum, the Kenya-born long distance runner who broke the men’s marathon world record in October 2023, has died. He was 24.

According to multiple reports, Kiptum died in a car accident in Kenya on Sunday night. The reports also stated his coach, Gervais Hakizimana, has died.

Elgeyo Marakwet County Police Commandant Peter Mulinge, according to an Olympics.com report, confirmed the accident took place on the Eldoret-Kaptagat road. An ESPN report further stated the road, which is between the western Kenya towns of Eldoret and Kaptagat, is in a high-altitude area used as a training base for long-distance runners.

Kiptum, a Nike athlete, won the Bank of America Chicago Marathon on Oct. 7, 2023, breaking the men’s marathon world record during the race. Kiptum finished the race with a time of 2 hours and 35 seconds. His time bested that of Eliud Kipchoge, the previous record holder, who held the men’s world record with a time of 2 hours, 1 minute and 9 seconds, set at the 2022 BMW Berlin Marathon.

According to World Athletics, Kiptum — one of six athletes named World Athletes of the Year for 2023 — has three of the seven fastest marathon times in history.

FN has reached out to Nike for comment.

About the Author

Peter Verry is the Senior News and Features Editor for Athletic and Outdoor at Footwear News. He oversees coverage of the two fast-paced and ultracompetitive markets, which includes conducting in-depth interviews with industry leaders and writing stories on sneakers and outdoor shoes. He is a lifelong sneaker addict (and shares his newest purchases via @peterverry on Instagram) and spends most of his free time on a trail. He holds an M.A. in journalism from Hofstra University and can be reached at peter.verry@footwearnews.com.

Kevin M. Hurley, senior production director for Penske Media Corp., parent of WWD, died on Wednesday at his home in Cornwall, N.Y., after a 14-month battle with pancreatic cancer. He was 54.

Visitation services will be held Sunday, Nov. 12, from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Quigley-Sullivan Funeral Home, 337 Hudson Street, Cornwall on Hudson, N.Y. A funeral will be held Monday, Nov. 13, at 11 a.m. at the Church of St. Patrick, 445 Route 32, Highland Mills, N.Y.

Hurley was born in the Bronx, N.Y., and attended Washingtonville High School followed by Manhattan College, where he graduated in 1991.

His first job was at Fairchild Publications in 1992 where he worked in production, as a manager, director or senior director for several of the publications in the PMC portfolio including WWD, Footwear News, Beauty Inc., Billboard, The Hollywood Reporter and Rivet. 

“Production never gets the credit it deserves since, at its best, it is invisible,” said James Fallon, editorial director of Fairchild Media Group. “The publication just appears as if by magic. And Kevin was the consummate magician. No matter the size of the issue, or the challenges involved in getting it from point A to point B, Kevin effortlessly and diligently performed miracles. There was no drama, no complaint and no bad temper, no matter how late editorial got the stories and photos to the plant — and they were almost always late. Stay until 3 a.m. to make sure the issues got out OK? Sure. Wrestle with the printer to stretch the deadline as late as possible? No problem. Drive through a snowstorm to New Jersey to ensure the issues of WWD were distributed? Absolutely.

“To say he was professional is like saying the sun comes up each day. He was a paragon of dependability and good humor, and he will be immensely missed.”

Peter Sadera, editor of Sourcing Journal, another Fairchild publication, said, “Looking back on the more than 20 years I worked with Kevin, it’s hard to picture any interaction without a smile on his face. In the time before 24-hour connectivity, he was one of the few on call at 4 a.m. on a Sunday to troubleshoot the latest issue, and he always came through. Easy to talk to, easy to work with and one of a kind. His passing leaves a sadness for many.”

Joni Antonacci, vice president of production operations for PMC, said, “Kevin’s professionalism, great eye for detail and his out-of-the-box approach to solving problems made him the first person to pop to mind when there was a crisis. There was never a job or request too small for Kevin. If you felt nervous and needed help, he had the ability to walk into a room and talk to you like he’d always known you. He put you at ease, earned your respect and became a friend that you never expected. His smile, his horrible and wonderful puns, and his laughter will be greatly missed.”

Hurley met his wife, Liz, at Manhattan College; they were married for 26 years and lived in the Bronx for more than 16 years before moving to Cornwall 18 years ago. The couple has two sons: Owen, 20, and Andrew, 11.

When not answering panicked calls from editors, Hurley enjoyed the outdoors: hiking, kayaking, geo-cashing and long walks with Zoey, his Great Pyrenees. He took great pride in landscaping his home and his ability to fix anything; cars, computers or things around the house, according to his wife.

“A lifelong Yankee fan, he shared that love with family and friends. He logged more hours than anybody watching Motor Trend channel and loved old cars. He told the best or worst Dad jokes, depending on who you asked. Kevin was your man if you need anything researched. He was always a phone call away if anyone needed anything. We know that is how he would want to be remembered,” she said. 

In addition to his wife and sons, Hurley is survived by his sisters, Kerry Dineen (husband Patrick) and Deirdre Ennis; his father-in-law Alfred Wassler and his wife Patti; brothers-in-law Kevin and Tim Wassler and their wives Carrie and Dana, and sister-in-law Emily Wassler. He is also survived by his nieces and nephews, Connor, Rory and Brogan Dineen; Meaghan and Mackenzie Ennis; Kaitlyn, Sarah and Jack Wassler, Reese Wassler and many aunts, uncles and cousins.

“He will also be remembered by his very large group of friends and coworkers, who provided unwavering support and strength during his courageous battle,” his wife said. He was predeceased by his parents John and Elizabeth, his mother-in-law, Mary Wassler, and his brother-in-law, James Ennis.

The family said donations in Hurley’s name could be made to the Hospice of Orange and Sullivan, or the Lustgarten Foundation.

Beloved family members and longtime employees remember Robert Tucker’s immense generosity and unwavering commitment to his family business.

Jacqueline Tucker, buyer and daughter

“Daddy was a humble giant. He honored God and God blessed him with an ability to see things that others didn’t in the business world. He could feel a shift in business before it happened and prepare. He never asked anything that he was not willing to do himself, and his employees loved him for that. He instilled something in you that made you want to do your best. He felt a deep responsibility for everyone in the company and wanted to do his best to take care of them and their families.”

Chase Tucker, buyer and grandson

“One memory I have that will stick with me is when we were overseas in China. We were finishing up with one last factory visit and, of course, this factory had the larger-than-normal concrete stairs and the showroom was on level 3 with no elevator. Well, there goes Mr. Tucker to the stairs. It was a struggle getting his feet up some of the large steps and the lighting wasn’t great, but I knew he wasn’t going to stop or complain. I could see the focus and determination in his face. Something so simple meant so much to me. He was teaching. A man with few words and a man of immense action. I was lucky to be alongside him during some of his best teaching moments, when he could have easily hung up the suit, but he continued to pursue his passion. I am very thankful for having gotten to spend time in the workplace with my grandfather.”

John Walker, VP of merchandise

“Mr. Tucker changed retail by creating efficiencies that do not exist in modern retail. His idea of running a business lean made Shoe Show nimble and able to turn on a dime.”

George Slaughter, buyer

“My fondest memory of Mr. Tucker is something that still endures and impacts my family profoundly to this day. We are among the countless people he touched and helped over his lifetime: Our daughter is a bright young lady who is disabled and goes about life in a power wheelchair. When she graduated high school, despite our best efforts, there were no jobs that allowed her to thrive in the workplace. In the midst of our frustration, one Sunday night after the close of our church service, Mr. Tucker stood up in front of the congregation and announced, ‘Abby, tomorrow you are going to work.’ Today, she is in the midst of her 22nd year of employment at Shoe Show Inc. and looking forward to many more. The tremendous emotions of that moment are still fresh. This has completely transformed her life in the most positive ways imaginable.”

Jay Manning, chief operations officer

“Bob had a passion to do business. As a great merchant, he had a passion for product. He had a passion for his customers and for his employees. He had a passion for life, family and friends. As a great leader, he instilled that passion in others. What he taught us guides not only our business, but the lives of those of us fortunate enough to have learned from him. He will be sorely missed.”

Vicki O’Donnell, chief marketing & construction officer

“Mr. Tucker was a formidable presence, a guiding light not only to me but to many others. I held myself to the highest standards to avoid ever letting him down. His tenacity and unwavering commitment to excellence were legendary. Rising from humble beginnings, he founded a business that can only be described as divinely blessed.

He was devoted to his faith, family and Shoe Show Inc. With over 10,000 employees relying on the success of the company for their livelihood, he bore the weight of responsibility with grace and sincerity. After every major storm, he would personally check on our store associates, ensuring their safety and well-being. Even during the tumultuous times of the COVID pandemic, when everything came to a standstill, he continued to pay every employee, sparing them the stress of mounting bills. In today’s retail landscape, such care and commitment are a rarity. Mr. Tucker epitomized ‘For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall much be required’ (Luke 12:48), and his actions mirrored his beliefs.

I have over three decades of cherished memories with him. Our shared love for classic cars led to him leaving old auction books on my desk, a simple yet meaningful gesture. He was a lover of animals and once allowed me to shelter a stray parking lot cat in my satellite office, which we affectionately named Trinkets after one of the house brands he developed. His fondness for suckers prompted me to keep a bowl of Dum Dum suckers on my desk for his visits. Now, I can never look at one without thinking of him. Mr. Tucker was an extraordinary individual, known for his quick wit and Tuckerisms, those humorous one-liners that made him uniquely himself. It was an honor to be mentored by him, and I am unequivocally a better person for the experience.”

Jack van der Poel, chief financial officer

“It is very hard to put into a couple of sentences the vision of Mr. Tucker, but I would say he was very opportunistic in business. This included increasing store locations in areas with little or no competition — or negotiating the price down of a service or a shoe, even just a few pennies. He truly believed if you watched your cents and half cents, the dollars would take care of themselves.

Bob believed in the underdog — and to that end, he would help numerous people with personal and business issues. Bob knew of the small shoe retailers in every town near our stores. He would visit them, and if they relied on a certain line of shoes, such as a Rockport, Bob would not allow our stores in the same area to stock Rockport. I would ask him why, and his comment was, ‘We have 1,000 stores, they only have one.’ He didn’t need to say another word, I knew why he did it.

On the personal side, and this happened often, if someone in the community needed dental or medical work, Bob would take the steps to help out these folks without anyone knowing, including at times, the individual he was helping. Bob was truly an old-school entrepreneur, along the likes of [Food Lion founder] Ralph Ketner and [Walmart founder] Sam Walton.”