Douglas Ricketts

Douglas Ricketts passed away on Thursday, January 9, 2014 at his home at the age of 76 years, three months and seven days. Douglas was born October 2, 1937, in Shidler, Oklahoma. He was the son of Thomas Quincy and Lillie Grace (Pickett) Ricketts. As a young boy Doug was raised and received his education in Shidler where he graduated from high school. Following high school Doug drove a truck for a short time and later joined the Armed Forces. Following his discharge from the military Doug began driving a bus at Vandenberg Air Force Base. Doug remained in California driving a bus for over 15 years. At that time in the 1970ís, Doug returned to Oklahoma and accepted employment with PepsiCo in Tulsa, Oklahoma. During his time with Pepsi, Doug worked as a mechanic servicing the delivery trucks. After 20 plus years with Pepsi, Doug retired in 1991. Doug was a very generous, compassionate and giving man. He was always willing and wanting to help anyone in need. Doug was dedicated to supporting Boys Town. Boys Town was started on the streets of Omaha, Nebraska, in 1917, by Father Edward Joseph Flanagan. Father Flanagan developed a lifelong interest in young people and their struggle to grow into responsible, productive members of society. Doug being a strong and avid supporter, he helped continue Father Flanagan's mission of saving children and healing families. The Appalachian Childrenís Home was also another pet project of Dougís. The Appalachian Children's Home is an orphanage located on a 158-acre campus on the outskirts of Barbourville, Kentucky, operated as a Christian ministry with support from several Independent Pentecostal churches in Kentucky and numerous other local churches. They strive to provide the best possible care available for the children placed in their custody. Besides being an avid supporter of great causes Doug was also a computer and electronic enthusiasts. He also loved to collect cars and had several collections from the Franklin Mint Company. He had a great sense of humor and very well thought of by his friends and family. Doug also frequented the Daylight Doughnut Shop at 61st and 33rd West Ave nearly every day to discuss and visit with his friends. Survivors are his one brother Speedy Ricketts of Cleveland, Oklahoma, one sister June Rose Hall of Napoma, California as well as numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents Doug was preceded in death by his two brothers Delmar and Dale Ricketts, well as one sister Pauline Ricketts and a infant brother. Funeral services will be held 2:00 pm Tuesday, January 14, 2014 at the Chapman-Black Funeral Home with Rev. Scott Watkins officiating. Burial will follow in the Sinnett Cemetery under the direction of Chapman-Black Funeral Home.