Dwayne Larvel Ricketts

Born to Alberta and James C. Sr. Ricketts on May 3, 1959, in Nashville, TN, Dwayne was raised with strong values that guided him throughout his life. He received his formal education at Madison High School (RAMS), where he excelled as a student-athlete, becoming the N.I.L Leading Rusher in football in 1977. His athletic prowess earned him a scholarship to Memphis State University, where he continued to shine in both football and track. Dwayne graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in the College of Arts and Sciences, majoring in Criminal Justice and minoring in Sociology.

On October 3, 2024, Dwayne transitioned from this life, surrounded by his loving family, who stood by his side as he found peace in God’s arms. As he grew weary, the Lord saw fit to bring him home, whispering softly, “Come with Me.” Dwayne’s legacy of love, service, and faith will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Dwayne was preceded in death by his brother Kenneth Ricketts, his sister Carolyn VanHeyningen, and his parents Alberta N. and James C. Ricketts Sr. He leaves behind a loving and devoted family to cherish his memory: his beloved wife Angela, his son Carey Ricketts, and his daughters Cherae, Chakia, and Ciara Ricketts. His cherished grandchildren—Chase Brown, Jason Presley, Layla Ellis, MaKiah Darrett, Daysha Johnson, Adrian McClure, Cavari Ricketts Frazier, and Kai Boone—will forever remember the joy he brought to their lives. Dwayne is also survived by his siblings Linda Ricketts, James (Ruth) Ricketts, Beverly Jones, and Vernessa Ricketts; his nieces and nephews, Melanie (Daryl) Robinson, Kesha Jones, Julia Gibson, Shatika Ricketts, Arlando (Yashi) Vanheyningen, Alex, and Armand Vanheyningen; his mother-in-law Mary Murphy; and his sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Tammie (Silmon) Sanders, Sonya Murphy, Darrin (Inena) Murphy, and Marlon Murphy. There is a host great nieces and nephews, and a host of cousins & friends.