John Richard Ricketson

Posted on March 11, 2020

John Richard Ricketson passed away peacefully at his home in Perry on March 10, 2020, surrounded by his family.

A brief battle with cancer was fought with his faith and family by his side.

He was born in Perry on Jan. 8, 1947, and lived in Perry until his passing.

A graduate of Taylor County High School, Class of 1965, he played football, basketball, baseball, ran track and was a drummer in the band. The strong friendships he made with his teammates lasted his entire lifetime.

High school is where he met and married his high school sweetheart, Janice. They were married in 1967 and recently celebrated 53 years together. Family was his everything – children and grandchildren.

He was employed by Proctor & Gamble for 32 years .

Outdoor activities were almost a daily ritual, usually with some children and friends.

His devotion to football, all sports and his children’s activities were a top priority and constant source of enjoyment, from coaching to sidelines. He was always there to support and encourage.

His love of the outdoors led him to open John’s Bait and Tackle shop with his father by his side.

He proudly served in the U.S. Army and Reserves.

John was a lifelong member of First United Methodist church where he was active in the men’s club, softball and Wednesday night dinners.

He was preceded in death by: his parents, Edward Irvin Ricketson and Elsie Mae Ricketson; and his brothers, Jay Timothy Ricketson and Edward I. Ricketson.

He is survived by: his wife, Janice; sons, Wade (Rick) of Orlando and Jay (Jessica) of Perry; sister, Deborah Spradley (Steve); sister and brother in-law, Pat and Jimmy Head; sister-in-law, Kathi Traywick of Canton, Ga.; grandchildren, Katie Ricketson, Treyton Kirk and Karsyn Ricketson; nieces and nephews, Michael Head (Kathy), Warren Head, Sean Traywick, (Shannon), Cari Wall (Chris), Joey Traywick (Melanie), Megin Roebuck (T.J), Lance Holder (Nicole) and Stephen (Wendee); and 16 very special great-nieces and great-nephews.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, March 12, at 2 p.m. at First United Methodist Church with Brother Ben Kimmell officiating. Burial will follow at Woodlawn Cemetery immediately afterward. The family will receive friends at the church prior to the service, from 12:30-2 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Big Bend Hospice or First United Methodist Children’s Home in Madison.

All arrangements are under the care of Burns Funeral Home of Perry. Friends may sign the online guest book at www.joepburnsfuneralhomes.com.