Richard R. "Rickey" Heath

Richard R. Heath, known to family and friends as Rickey, of Carrollton, Georgia, passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 28, 2025, at the age of 81.

Born on August 15, 1944, in Carrollton to the late Janette Jones Heath and Harvey Calvin Heath, Rickey was a proud graduate of Central High School, Class of 1962. He went on to serve his country honorably in the National Guard.

Rickey was the longtime owner and operator of Preston's Radiator Shop, where he worked with dedication and pride until his retirement in 2018. In 1967, he married the love of his life, Patricia Styles. Throughout their 58 years of marriage, Rickey and Pat shared a passion for travel-exploring North America by RV, skiing both in the U.S. and abroad, and forming lasting friendships along the way.

A man of few words but great heart, Rickey enjoyed the simple pleasures of life: time spent with close friends, a hearty laugh, watching auto racing and ball games on TV, and keeping a well-manicured yard. He was especially fond of dinners out-shrimp and dessert were always his go-to.

Over the years, Rickey and Pat welcomed many beloved dogs and cats into their home, all of whom held a special place in their hearts. He leaves behind his cherished, fluffy cat Ellzey.

Rickey is survived by his devoted wife, Patricia (Pat); sister, Shirley Grizzard; sister-in-law, Kathy Entrekin (Cleve); 8 nieces and nephews; 11 great-nieces and nephews; and 8 great-great-nieces and nephews, along with their spouses. He was preceded in death by sisters and brothers-in-law Marguerite and Alvin "Shorty" Eidson, Hildred and Willard Moore; brother-in-law Gene Grizzard; and nephew Steve

Moore.

In accordance with his wishes, Rickey's body will be cremated and a celebration of his life will be held at Shiloh Methodist Church at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Rickey's memory to:

• The American Cancer Society,

• The American Heart Association, or

• Shiloh Methodist Church Walking Trail Fund/mail to 1874 Burwell Road, Carrollton, Georgia 30117.

Messages of love and condolences may be shared with the family at www.martin-hightower.com.

Martin & Hightower Heritage Chapel is honored to care for the Heath family during this time.