WILLIE RICKS

Willie James Ricks was born January 18, 1946 to Major and Melissa Ricks in Rayville, LA. He was the fifth of ten kids. He graduated from Eula D. Britton High School, class of 1964. He went to college for a year and decided to serve his country, by joining the United States Army, 1966-1968. He received a Good Conduct Medal and National Defense Service Medal, rank was Lieutenant Sergeant as a Marksman.

He continued his education at Paul Quinn College and received his Associates Degree in Business and Management. Being a hard worker, he began his employment with the Unites States Postal Services in Houston, TX, and remained there for over thirty years, until he retired.

He joined Arlington Park 1st Baptist Church shortly after marrying his devoted, loving wife, Shirley Ricks. He served on the Usher Board as President. Willie also helped with the Youth Usher Board and other ministries where he was needed. He loved to cook for his family and others. Willie never met a stranger and always had a friendly spirit. He was a person that you never saw upset and absolutely loved to laugh.

Preceding him death: his parents, Major and Melissa Ricks; brothers: Major Ricks, Jr., Freddie Lee Ricks, Lee Roy Ricks, Ernest Ricks, Clinton Ricks, and Bobby Lee Ricks; sister: Ada Ricks and niece, Sheila Ricks.

Willie leaves to cherish his loving memories his wife: Shirley Ricks; stepdaughters: Sheila Purl (Oklahoma City, OK) and Sylvia Kelley (Dallas, TX); step-grandson: Terrence Marshall (Fort Worth, TX); siblings: Alice Josey (Houston, TX), Earnestine Ricks (Houston, TX), Eddie Gordon (St. Louis, MO); and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.