John P. Ricks

John P. Ricks (76) passed away Friday, February 6, 2026 at the Sanctuary Hospice House in Tupelo. He was a proud member of the U.S. Army and served in Vietnam from August of 1970 to April of 1971 where he rightfully earned a Purple Heart and Bronze Star. He was also a member of the Vietnam Veterans Association.

John and his brother, Bob, were the founders of Mastercraft Builders. John was very skilled with his hands. He was a very talented wood worker where he crafted custom cabinets and then later skilled in building guitars. He also enjoyed hunting, fishing, playing cards, metal detecting, having cookouts, doing leather work and being apart of the band, "The Kelts".

Above all, John's deepest passion was his family. His favorite holiday was Thanksgiving because it involved "food and family."

Services are 3 pm Monday, February 9, 2026 in the Baldwyn Chapel of Kesler Funeral Home with Bro. Anthony Copeland officiating. Burial will follow in the Prentiss Memorial Gardens. Visitation will be 1-3 pm Monday in the Baldwyn Chapel of Kesler Funeral Home.

John is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Hellen Ricks of Wheeler; his sons, John Alan Ricks of Wheeler, Charles Evan Ricks (Stacy) of Booneville and Kenneth Everett Ricks of Booneville; his beloved grandchildren, Garrett Alan Ricks, Cade Riley Ricks (Autumn), Haley Anne Ricks and Madeline Harper Ricks and a host of nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Luther Lloyd & Geneva Athalee Ricks; his brothers, Lloyd and Bob Ricks and his sisters, Ann Harlow, Dean Cooper, Nyoka Burns, Martha Mahler and Linda Mahler.

Pallbearers are Garrett Ricks, Cade Ricks, Clay Chism, James Smith and Robert Kearns.

The family would like to give special thanks to his hospice nurse, Stephanie; his aides, Nicky & Myesha and to the entire staff at the Sanctuary Hospice House.

In lieu of flowers, the family would like donations to be made to the Sanctuary Hospice House in remembrance of John.