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Rickey was born on February 20, 1957 in Andalusia, Alabama to Mildred Craig and Lenard Smithart. Growing up in Andalusia, Rickey moved to the big city of Columbus, Georgia where he would marry the love of his life, Debi Shortnacy on December 27, 1980.
Rickey was an avid sports fan, especially anything involving the Alabama Crimson Tide. A proud family man, Rickey loved his brothers, sisters and countless aunts, uncles and cousins. He spent years coaching fast-pitch softball at Northern Little League and will always be remembered as a positive influence in the lives of so many of his players.
He is survived by his wife of 42 years, his daughter Tiffany Nicholas (Robbie) of Midland, Georgia, Jenna Olesin (Matt) of Gulf Breeze, Florida and his grandchildren Kayden, Addison, Reagan, Brooklyn and Skylar.
A celebration of Rickey’s life will be held at Pierce Chapel Methodist Church on September 30, 2023 at 2:00pm and officiated by Rev. Jerry Akin. Friends and family will be received, following the service.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be sent to Pierce Chapel Methodist Church at 5122 Pierce Chapel Rd. Midland, GA 31820.
Georgia Cremation of Columbus, Georgia is assisting the family.
Jenna Olesin says
Daddy,
You were the very first man I ever loved. I thank you for your unconditional love and support until the very end. You were a humble, kind, gentle man who loved with all your heart. You gave us your all, and we are eternally grateful to you.
We love you daddy. Rest easy.
Lynn Morgan says
Tiffany, Jenna and Debi,
I am so sorry for your loss. I only met him a few times but he was one of a kind. I will keep you all in my prayers. I know there is nothing anyone can say or do to help you with your grief at this time. Just hold each other tight.
Love Ya’ll
Lynn
Kelly Veasey says
Just learned about Rickey’s passing and so sorry to hear of it, please accept my condolences. Rickey was my baseball coach in the Andalusia Babe Ruth League in 1977, we won the city league championship that year.
Mary Smithart Werner says
I’m so sorry for your loss. I never met Rickey but I did meet his father. I was only a little girl but remember when Lenard would visit my Dad. John Smithart.
Debi Mott says
Debi, I just found out about Rickey, and I’m so sorry. He was a great guy, everyone loved being around him and he will be missed. Again I am so very sorry for you and the girls.