It is with deep gratitude for a life well lived that we announce the passing of Charles A. Ricks Sr., 90, who left this world on October 2, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family.
Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, October 8, at Claybar Funeral Home in Orange, Texas. Officiating will be Brother Wayne Alford as well as readings and remarks by Charles’s nephew, Michael Day. Burial will follow at Wilkinson Cemetery in Orange.
Visitation will be held prior to the service, beginning at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, October 8, at Claybar Funeral Home in Orange.
Born and raised in Lufkin, Texas, Charles was a man of simple joys and steady values. He found his greatest happiness in the quiet of the woods, the stillness of a fishing hole, and the roar of a football game on the television. Whether tracking deer or casting a line, he carried with him a deep respect for nature and an appreciation for the blessings of each day. Charles was also a Mason and a member of Madison Lodge #126 in Orange, Texas.
Above all, Charles cherished his family. He was married to his loving wife, Louise, for 72 wonderful years, a testament to their devotion and enduring partnership. His love was constant, his advice was wise, and his stories, often told with a twinkle in his eye, will forever echo in our hearts. His granddaughters and great-grandchildren were the light of his life, filling his days with joy and pride. Their laughter brightened every moment, and he never missed an opportunity to boast about their accomplishments or share a warm hug.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Carson and Hazel Ricks; his son-in-law, Gary Hood; and his siblings, Larry G. Ricks, Linwood Ricks, Marie Whitehead, Geneva Raley, and Joyce Winder.
Those left to cherish his memory are his beloved wife, Louise Day Ricks; his daughter, Debra Hood; his son, Charles A. Ricks, Jr. and wife, Kim; his granddaughters, Alanna Self and husband, Justin, and Abby Ricks; his great-grandchildren, Kiley Self, Kenzie Self, Jaxon McQuerry, Waylon Ricks, and Autumn Meyers; his sisters, Opal Whitehead, Lola Day, and Wilma Permenter; along with numerous other loving family and friends.
Serving as pallbearers will be Justin Self, Benny Winder, Jaxon McQuerry, Waylon Ricks, Jamie Whisneant, Larry Winder, and Jimmy Wayne Raley. Serving as honorary pallbearer will be Sam Permenter, Jr.
The Ricks family would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to Amellia, Wanda, Veronica, Crystal, Nita, and Terri for their loving care in Charles’s final days.