Richard "Ricky" Williams

Richard “Ricky” Williams, born June 13, 1962, passed away on September 17, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, generosity, and selflessness that touched the lives of many. He will be remembered not only for the life he lived, but for the love he shared so freely with his family, friends, neighbors, and the many children whose lives he helped shape.

Ricky was born in Chicago to Herbert and Cupil (Ford) Williams. He grew up surrounded by family and was one of seven siblings, including Stanley, who preceded him in death. The bond he shared with his brothers and sisters remained strong throughout his life, and they were known for the love and closeness they showed one another. Ricky carried that same devotion into every part of his life, and those who knew him best will remember his warm heart, his loyalty, and his ability to make others feel valued.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Claude Williams and Iris (Page), as well as William Grant Avery and Malinda (Brumley), and by his brother, Stanley Joe Williams. Their memories remained close to him throughout his life, and he honored his family through the way he lived, the way he loved, and the way he cared for others.

Ricky is survived by his sisters, Judy Zabilka, Brenda Lawson and her husband Doug, and Debbie Klein and her husband Dave; his brothers, Tony Williams and his twin brother, Randy Williams; and many nieces and nephews, including James and Jessica, Carl and Julia, Daniel and Sara, David and Rachael, Jack and Brianna, Theresa and Danny, along with so many more who were blessed to know him. He also leaves behind his beloved cats, Bob and Meeko, who were deeply loved and are surely heartbroken by his passing.

Ricky was a prankster in the best sense, full of mischief, energy, and a spirit that could light up any room. Those who knew him could tell stories that reflected both his humor and his fearless nature. One memory that has stayed with his family is the time he placed M80s in a neighbor’s metal trash can, set the lid in place, and then ran as the lid flew into the air. That story, like so many others, spoke to his bold personality and his remarkable ability to run. A former classmate once said that Rick was the best runner Ridgewood ever had, and although circumstances caused him to leave school early, his natural talent and determination were never forgotten.

More than anything, Ricky will be remembered for the way he gave of himself to others. He loved baseball and shared that love with children who had not had many chances to play. He taught them the game, encouraged them, and wanted them to have great memories even when life was difficult and incomes were limited. He understood the importance of joy, teamwork, and belonging, and he made it his mission to give children experiences they could carry with them forever. He believed in helping young people feel included, capable, and proud of themselves, and that gift will continue to live on in the hearts of those he inspired.

Ricky also served as a role model in deeply personal ways. After the passing of a loved one, he, along with Tony and Randy, became a guiding presence for a family’s sons, teaching them baseball, showing them how to be team players, and encouraging them to love what they did. Because of his influence, they played well and carried themselves with greater confidence. That kind of impact cannot be measured, and it is a testament to the kind of man he was. He did not seek recognition, but he made a lasting difference simply by being himself

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