James Harvey Ricketts

Rick joined the Navy in 1963. He served two tours with NATO as a Technical Illustrator in Italy where he met his Wife, Linda. They were joined in holy matrimony in 1968 and remained happily married for 54 years. Rick received subsequent assignments in London, England supporting the Commander in Chief of U. S. Naval Forces Europe and the Naval Station Norfolk, VA. He was very proud to serve his Country for 20 years.

Rick was one of the last remaining artisans who could hand-letter signs. Upon retirement from the Navy he started a business in the den of his home before opening the shop, SIGNMASTERS. He loved his shop and would spend countless hours there enjoying his chosen vocation. He loved all old cars and trucks and could talk for hours about antique and classic vehicles. It took him several months to purchase his latest SUV; everything had to be the perfect fit for him. But most of all he loved his 85’ red truck. Everyone at the shop knew that “Retro-Rick” was Rick. He recently did his last hand-lettered sign and was proud that he still had the skills needed for the task. Rick helped many young people to begin careers in the sign business. He was a mentor to many and was especially proud of Grant, Geno, Jimmy, Chuck, Don and what they have accomplished. They were like sons to him and he thoroughly enjoyed working with young people.

Rick is predeceased by his parents Jacob and Wanda and sister-in-law Peggy Baugh. Rick is survived by his immediate Family; Wife Linda, Daughter Lisa and Son Rick, Jr. and his buddy, Grandson Jacob.

Rick was an only child but loved being a part of a big family. He is also survived by his In-Laws Trudy Kelley, Toni and Clif McDaniel, Vicki Allen, Eddie McCammon, Danny McCammon and Dave Baugh; plus, his favorite nieces Kim, Jamie, Michelle (Dereck), Stephanie (Mike), Jennifer, Susan and Tara (Bob). He was very proud of his nephews as well: Sean (Ida), Kevin (Mary), Adam (Shelby), Patrick, Matt (Tracy), Bobbie (Heather), Adam (Laura) and Eric. Cousins, Glen, Floretta and Glenda. He loved being an integral part of the McCammon, Rawlinson and McIlvain families.

Rick had so many friends and customers that became friends; all, who said how kind and generous he was. He enjoyed the calls with his long-time friends Martha, Terry and Tim. Our good neighbors; Cynthia and Maurice. Thank you all for showing him how much he meant to you as we celebrate his life.

There will be a memorial service at Emmanuel Lutheran Church at 3900 Virginia Beach Blvd, VA Beach, VA on March 26th at 3 pm. The Family has requested that in lieu of flowers a donation, in Rick’s name, be given to the Church.

Retro Rick says hubba – hubba to you all and thank you for being a part of my life.