James Arthur Ricard

James Arthur Ricard, 85, of Overland Park, Kansas, peacefully entered the presence of his Savior on March 4, 2025. Born on August 1, 1939, to Finley Joseph Ricard and Barbara Ellen Vaughn Ricard, James lived a life marked by faith, service, and love.

A proud veteran, Jim served in the United States Air Force, where he was stationed in Germany and Okinawa, Japan. After his military service, he met the love of his life, Geneva Loydean Barker, on a blind date. On December 18, 1965, he married the most beautiful and intelligent woman he had ever known, and together they built a life of unwavering devotion, laughter, and nearly 60 years of love. While married, Jim pursued higher education and earned his bachelor’s degree from Avila University, showing his determination and dedication to providing for his family.

Jim spent the majority ofhis adult career in finance at ExxonMobil, demonstrating integrity, hard work, and a commitment to excellence. A man of strong faith, he was a devoted member of Prince of Peace Catholic Church and a 4th Degree Knight in the Knights of Columbus, living out his faith through service to others.

He found joy In the simple yet meaningful things—watching his grandkids play sports, cheering for Sporting KC and the Kansas City Chiefs, and traveling across the country with Loydean, taking in the beauty of God’s creation through camping. Bowling was another favorite pastime, a reflection of his love for fellowship and friendly competition.

Jim was preceded in death by his beloved infant daughter, Amber Elizabeth Ricard. He is survived by his cherished wife, Loydean Ricard; his loving children, Cindy Ricard Steele and her partner Chris Frans, and Aaron James Ricard and his wife Skyler Ricard; and six wonderful grandchildren—Christopher, Isaiah, Beau, Gabe, Zoe, and Selah—who were the light of his life.

While his passing leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew and loved him, we find peace in the promises of God. As 2 Timothy 4:7 reminds us, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” Jim lived this truth, and now he rests in eternal joy.

Though we grieve, we do not grieve as those without hope (1 Thessalonians 4:13). His legacy of faith, love, and strength will live on in the lives of his family and friends, and we take comfort in knowing that one day, we will be reunited.

We hold onto God’s promise in John 14:2-3—“In my Father’s house are many mansions… I go to prepare a place for you.” Jim is now home, in the presence of his Lord, where there is no more pain, only joy everlasting.

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