E.W. Ricks

E.W. Ricks, 92, of Hamburg, died Saturday, December 16, 2023, at his residence. Mr. Ricks was a native of Ashley County, a resident of Hamburg for over 60 years, and a former resident of Portland and Montrose. He was a veteran, and served his country in the United States Army. He worked as a Farm Manager for Tom Pugh until 1968 and was a Diesel Mechanic for John Deere in Portland until his retirement in 1989. He became an ordained Minister in 1982 and was the Pastor at Boydell Baptist Church and Sardis Baptist Church and would fill in at many other churches when needed. After his retirement, he turned his woodworking hobby into Uncle Runts Woodworks. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, painting and gardening, and loved spending time with his family.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Elbert and Geneva Crow Ricks; a brother, Louis Ricks, and a daughter-in-law, Doylene Kellum Ricks in 2021.

He is survived by his wife of 71 years, Mary Belle Ricks; a daughter, Shirlene Rogers, both of Hamburg; two sons, Rodney Ricks of Crossett and Franklin Ricks of Hamburg; seven grandchildren, Rebecca, Katie, Mathew, Sam, Clay, Roxanne and Dakota and 13 great-grandchildren.

The family would like to say a special “Thank You” to Hospice Home Care, his bonus daughter, Iris Brooks of Portland, B.J. Sturdivant (Knothead), Kate Johnson, Dowery Goudy, and Leann Mondragon.

Funeral services are 2 p.m., Tuesday, December 19, 2023, at the Mount Pleasant Baptist Church with Bro. Robin Allen and Bro. Scott Ricks officiating. Burial will be in the Portland Cemetery. Pallbearers are Jeff Foster, Keith Ladd, Ryan Grantham, Greg Grantham, Bob Young, and Jerad Selby. Honorary pallbearers are Johnny Hennington and Gary Matthews. Memorials may be made to the Portland Cemetery Association, c/o Marcia Vestal, 100 HWY 160, Portland, AR  71663.

Visitation will be 6 – 8 p.m., Monday at the funeral home.

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