Joe Milton "Poppie" Ricks

Joe Milton "Poppie" Ricks, age 85, went to be with the Lord on Sunday, September 7, 2025, in Del Rio, Texas. He was born on January 29, 1940, in Houston, Texas, and grew up in Del Rio where he formed lifelong friendships and became a beloved figure in his community.
Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Milton Dewitt Ricks and Juanita "Nita" Frances Ivie, as well as his brother, Don Michael Ricks.
He is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Ernestine "Ernie" Foster Ricks, whom he met at the local Dairy Dream. Joe noticed Ernie in her purple shorts, and he couldn't resist honking his wolf-whistle as he passed by in his 1951 Mercury Coup. Five years later, they married in June of 1961 at the original First Christian Church in Del Rio. Their love story was a testament to a bond that lasted a lifetime.
Together, Joe and Ernie raised four daughters: Renee Ricks Montgomery (Wade), Tina Jo Slone (Keet), Regina Ricks Daggett (Todd), and DeeDee Ricks Keener (Ken). He is also survived by his brother, Bob Alonzo Ricks (Janis), sister-in-law, Margot Ricks, and his uncle, Kenneth Ricks.
Joe's legacy continues through his beloved grandchildren: Sarah Calderon (Jerry), Amber Aguirre (Brian), Randee Montgomery, Ky Slone (Kayley), Kale Slone (Kristen), Cole Slone (Maddie), Blake Daggett, Dylan Daggett, Mackenzie Daggett Hammonds (Tyler), Kade Keener, Kyler Keener, and Kannon Keener. He was also blessed with great-grandchildren: Rylee McMinn, Mason McMinn, Jackson Aguirre, Brynn Aguirre, Case Calderon, Parker Slone, Olivia Slone, and Foster Slone.
Known for his love of life, generous heart, and dedication to family, Joe's love for his large extended family was immeasurable. He cherished his in-laws, nieces, nephews, and cousins, all of whom held a special place in his heart.
Joe was a man of great character who lived his life with integrity and purpose. His passion for sports began in his youth, where he played multiple sports throughout school and formed lasting friendships. His love of golf became his favorite pastime, not just for the game itself, but as a way to connect with old friends and make new ones. He could always be found on the golf course or the 19th Hole!
Joe's entrepreneurial spirit led him to own and operate Ricks Lumber Company, which laid the foundation for what would become his lifelong career in construction. As the founder of Joe Ricks Construction Company, Joe built hundreds of homes and businesses in Del Rio and Eagle Pass. Notably, he was proud to have been the builder of the First Christian Church on N. Main Street, a place of worship that was close to his heart. He later expanded into commercial construction, building Wendy's Restaurants across South Texas. Even after retiring, Joe remained active in managing the family's rental properties well into his late seventies.
Joe's love for family, his community, and his work defined him. He was a dedicated husband, father, grandfather, and friend and he felt God had truly blessed him. His faith and love of Jesus gave him strength, and towards the end of his life, he was described as having an iron will to live. With an unshakable spirit, Joe truly fought the good fight until his final breath. Joe will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Pallbearers honoring Joe's memory will be Ky Slone, Kale Slone, Cole Slone, Dylan Daggett, Kyler Keener, and Kannon Keener. Kade Keener will serve as honorary pallbearer.
A visitation will be held on Friday, September 12, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Sunset Memorial Oaks Funeral Home, 2020 N. Bedell Ave, Del Rio, Texas.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at 11:00 AM at First Christian Church, 2101 N. Main St, Del Rio, Texas. Interment will follow at Sunset Memorial Oaks Cemetery, 5144 Hwy 90 East, Del Rio, Texas.
In lieu of usual remembrances, memorials can be made to the First Christian Church 2101 N. Main St. Del Rio TX 78840 in memory of Joe Milton "Poppie" Ricks.