Hackney centenarian passes away aged 102

A much-loved, familiar face around Hackney whose catchphrase was “Don’t get old,” has passed away at the ripe age of 102.

Joseph Tucker was a bus conductor on routes passing through Hackney for many years, and until he reached his 100th birthday, he travelled daily on the bus between his home in Southwold Road, Clapton to shops in Hackney Central.

“A lot of people will have encountered him over the years, and he was a very memorable character - once met, always remembered,” said his friend Molly Porter.

Joseph graced the pages of the Hackney Gazette many times, including his surprise 100th birthday party in 2009.

His last “public appearance” came last July at the official opening of Newlon Housing Trust’s supported-living housing project, Century Court in Warwick Grove, when he found out it had been named in his honour.

“Joe felt very gratified by these experiences and the attention and could always be counted on to rise to the occasion,” said Molly.

Joseph died on March 21, aged 102.