Obituary of Ronald Phillip Ricks
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Ronald Phillip Ricks
Madison - Ronald Philip Ricks peacefully entered into the presence of his Heavenly Father on Saturday, August 3, 2024, at the age of 61. He passed peacefully in his sleep, surrounded by his wife, daughter and grandson. Throughout a courageous two-and-a-half-year battle with brain and lung cancer, Ron displayed remarkable strength, supported by family and friends at MD Anderson and MS Baptist Medical Center. Toward the end, he found comfort and care in the home of his daughter, Brandi, where he received hospice care and was tenderly looked after with love and dedication.
Ron, also known as Ronnie, was born in Jackson, MS on July 12th, 1963. Growing up, he attended McCleur Academy and was known for his strong will and kind nature. Ron loved to make people laugh and was always there for his friends and family. For 28 years, he worked for the US. Postal Service. Following an early retirement, Ron found success as an entrepreneur, establishing Ricks Vending Services. His ventures extended to owning several commercial and residential rental properties in the Tri-county area, showcasing his business skills and drive.
He shared a deep and unwavering love and dedication to his wife, Pamela Wagner Ricks. Ron’s love for his daughter, Brandi Ricks, and his four-year-old grandson, Layne Parks, was boundless. He cherished Brandi’s fiancé, Tylor Jefcoat, whom he embraced as a son, expressing gratitude for the devoted and loving presence he brought to Brandi, Layne, and Tylor's own son, Skylor Jefcoat. A devout Christian and Baptist, he embodied the principles of his faith with grace and compassion.
Ron was preceded in death by his parents, Carl Paul Ricks and Margaret Ann Copeland Ricks, of Madison, MS, and his grandparents, Henry Beeman Ricks and Lavada Lang Ricks of Louisville, MS, as well as Otha Curtis Copeland and Georgia Harrison Copeland of Philadelphia, MS. He is fondly remembered by numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 40 years, Pamela Wagner Ricks, and his daughter, Brandi Ricks, along with his grandson, Layne, all of Madison. He also leaves behind Brandi’s fiancé, Tylor Jefcoat of Madison, and Tylor’s son, Skylor Jefcoat of Florence. Additionally, he is survived by his sister, Paula Ricks Herbert, and her husband, Mark Herbert, of Ridgeland, as well as a large and much-loved extended family.
In accordance with Ron’s wishes, there will be no funeral services or visitation until he and his wife, Pamela Ricks, are rejoined at Heaven’s Gate. He wishes to have his urn placed inside her casket upon her burial. At that time, there will be a joint funeral and visitation honoring both husband and wife.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital in Memphis, TN or to M.D. Anderson in Houston, TX so that they may continue their fight against cancer.