Richard Smith

LIVESTREAM LINK VIA ZOOM https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84021576817?pwd=mtcW8hPh5dAM2FgaTnV86LEw2AGSvq.1 PLEASE NOTE: While you may join at any time, the feed from the service will not begin until 2:55 PM, 5 minutes before the 3 pm service. It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Ricky, a beloved husband, father, Godfather, Pap Pap, brother, "Unc", nephew, cousin and friend. Ricky left us peacefully on January 26th at the age of 62 at the W.G. Heffner VA Medical Center in Salisbury, NC. Ricky was the son of Beverly and Harold Smith, the brother of Harold, William (AKA Lefty) and Michelle (AKA Missy), and the father of Joel(Alicia), Richelle(Scotty), and Vonda. He was a Pap Pap to Valasia, Valeah, Melanie, Ja'Michael, Mario, Skailar, Nayomi (and two more on the way-Judah Amiri, and Jeremiah Amari), and Godfather to Tarrick. A proud veteran, Ricky dedicated part of his life to serving his country in the Army, serving in the 1st Infantry Division. He spoke fondly of his time stationed in Panama, although he often talked more about the action at the local bars than the battlefield. He was always sure to show honor and respect to any veteran he passed, offering a handshake or a head nod. Beyond his military service, Ricky was an avid fan of the Pittsburgh Steelers. He wore his black and yellow with pride, often acquiring every piece of Steelers memorabilia he could find at rummage sales, or as he called them, "rummies." Second to his love for Steeler Nation was his love for food. He was a chef both professionally and within his family. His often imitated, never duplicated, mac and cheese was a staple at every family gathering. He often enjoyed the quiet waters of his favorite fishing spot. But most often he enjoyed his long, in-depth talks with Madear. Ricky was raised in Pittsburgh but, after the Army, took up residence in South Carolina. After several years, he returned to Pittsburgh to care for his beloved mom and sister, both of whom, along with his father preceded him in death. After the passing of his sister, he reconnected with an old friend who would become his wife, Verris. From their union, he gained three more children—Mario, Jada, and Jasmine(Bayo). Together, they relocated to Concord, North Carolina. Ricky was known for his quick wit, infectious laugh, and his infamous sayings, which we’ll call “Rickyisms.” He would offer you the shirt off his back and simply say, "Aww, that's nothing." His presence will be deeply missed, but his legacy will live on in the memories of those who were fortunate enough to know him. He is survived by his wife, 6 children, 9 grandchildren, and a large host of nieces, nephews, uncles, cousins, godchildren, and friends. Shark Week won’t be the same without you. We will see your face when a Biggie song plays on the radio, but it ain’t nothing but a thang because this is not goodbye. We will see him again—you already know! Until then, ☝&#55356;� Ricky's family has given the family of Lowe-Neddo Funeral Home the privilege of caring for him and for them. A service celebrating his life will be held on Sunday, February 2, 2025, at 3 pm in the chapel of the funeral home, 4715 Margaret Wallace Road, Matthews, NC 28105. The family will receive friends from 2 pm until the time of service. All services will conclude at the funeral home.

Richard Smith

May 21, 1962 - January 26, 2025