R. Michael Ricketts

Louisville - R. Michael Ricketts, 75, passed away peacefully after fighting pulmonary fibrosis on July 24, 2025, at Baptist East Hospital. He was surrounded by his family and a loving call from California.

Born in Louisville, KY, he was the son of the late Jean Baxter and Roy L. Ricketts. Mike graduated from Waggener High School in 1967, and from the University of Kentucky in 1971 with a degree in Business Administration. He cherished his time at Sigma Chi Fraternity where he met many of his lifelong friends.

Mike spent his professional career as an investment advisor starting in 1972 at Citizens Fidelity Bank. In 1977, he became a Registered Representative and for the following 45 years his friendly smile was a fixture at the firms of Paine Webber, EF Hutton, Morgan Keegan and Raymond James. Throughout his career Mike earned a reputation for being the first person to arrive at the office every morning and was often sought out for his experience and trusted counsel. In 2020, he cofounded Ricketts Financial with two of his sons, achieving his dream of owning a family business.

Known as an avid sports fan, Mike loved supporting the Kentucky Wildcats and always enjoyed a round of golf with his friends. He lit up every room that he entered and he brightened the lives of those who knew him.

Mike was a member of Harvey Browne Presbyterian Church. He had a strong, quiet faith in Jesus, and was an enduring rock for those around him. Mike's greatest blessing was being married to the love of his life, Cary. He was the most loving husband, father, and friend, and being "Pops" to his grandchildren filled his heart with joy. He was always looking forward to the next family vacation.

He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Cary Rasnick Ricketts; four children, Jake Ricketts, Patrick (Ashley) Ricketts, McCauley (Jillson) Ricketts, Cary (Channing) Cox; and nine grandchildren, Maddie Ricketts, Elliott Ricketts, Lucy Ricketts, Charlotte Ricketts, Mary Mac Cox, Gentry Cox, Graham Ricketts, Elise Ricketts, Lawson Cox, and his sister, Becky Ricketts.

Funeral services will be held at Harvey Browne Presbyterian Church, 311 Browns Lane, on Wednesday, July 30 at 11:30 AM. A reception will follow at Louisville Country Club. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation or Harvey Browne.