Ricky Underwood Obituary
Obituary published on Legacy.com by Lynlee Mae Chapel & Event Center on Oct. 3, 2025.
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Ricky Doyle Underwood was born on June 7, 1964, and passed from this life on September 12, 2025. He lived life with passion, a deep love for family, and a special bond with the open road.
Ricky was a true car enthusiast through and through. He loved working on cars, owning them, and most of all he loved driving them. His pride and joy was his 1978 Z-28, a car that wasn't just transportation, but a symbol of joy, freedom, and connection. Whether he was tuning it up, cruising down the road, or showing it off at Thunder Valley in Noble, Ricky's love for drag racing and fast cars was undeniable. He spent countless hours at the track, always chasing a better time, always in pursuit of that perfect run. But for Ricky, cars weren't just about speed, they were also a way to meet people, spark conversations, and form friendships. When someone admired his Z-28, Ricky never missed the chance to chat, laugh, and connect over a shared passion. His car was also his escape. With the radio cranked up, music pouring through the speakers - whether it was country, classic rock, or anything in between - everything else could fade away. He sang along to it all.
Ricky also had a deep love for food. He enjoyed trying new restaurants and discovering fun, off-the-beaten-path places to eat. Many of those outings inspired dishes he'd later recreate at home. Over the years, he became something of a breakfast connoisseur - a true master of the skillet. However, when it came to pork chops, there was no competition: his wife's were the best, and the only ones he'd eat. He'd proudly tell anyone that no one made them like she did.
More than anything, Ricky loved his family. He especially cherished time spent with his grandchildren and holidays surrounded by loved ones. Family gatherings were the heartbeat of his life.
Professionally, Ricky began by working with his father and later found a career at The Hearth Shop as a fireplace installer. He also spent time working for the American Candy Company, formerly known as Bunte Candy Company in Oklahoma City.
Ricky is survived by his beloved wife of 42 years, Janet; daughters Amanda Cross and Tiffany Dollar (husband Dustin); his mother, Mary Smith; grandchildren Riley Underwood, Allison Cross, April Underwood, Daemon Dollar, Ella Dollar, Ashlynn Dollar, and Twila Dollar. He is also survived by Gail Walker, Danny Underwood, Janice Whitman, Forrest Underwood, and Marilyn Merriott.
He is preceded in death by his father, Orval Underwood, and his sister, Cathy Underwood.
Ricky's legacy is one of joy, warmth, grit, and love. Whether behind the wheel of his Z-28, gathered around the table with family, or simply listening to a favorite song, he lived life fully and authentically, and his presence will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
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