Ricky Ray Smith Jr., age 50, of Nickerson, Kansas, passed away on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at 9:00 p.m., with his sister by his side at Hutchinson Regional Hospital.

Born on July 2, 1975, in Hutchinson, Kansas, Ricky spent most of his life in Kansas but enjoyed traveling, with recent trips to California, Arizona, and Oklahoma.  In 2025, Ricky became a Christian and found comfort in his faith, knowing he would spend eternity with his Lord and Savior.

Ricky was known for his infectious smile, playful grin, and ability to bring laughter to those around him.  He often delighted others with his humor, especially with his favorite phrase, "It's free day."  Ricky's kind and caring nature left a lasting impact on everyone who knew him.  He had a deep love for sports, cheering passionately for the Kansas City Chiefs, Kansas State football, and Kansas basketball.  He also enjoyed gambling on FanDuel and scratching lottery tickets.  Though he never struck it rich financially, he was abundantly wealthy in love, family, and friendships.  Among the many joys in his life were his family and the companionship of his beloved cat, Fancy.

Ricky is survived by his mother Brenda Keith and stepfather Micheal Keith.  He is also survived by his brother Buddy Joe Smith and wife Angel, and their son Micheal Joe; loving sister Amber Lea Miears and husband Scott Miears, and their children Chase Nachtigal and his wife Catherine Nachtigal, Lesley Miears and Courtney Melvin, and their sons Kenneth and Cannon, Breanna Schmitt and her husband Jeffrey Schmitt, and their son Bastion; as well as Ricky's son Christopher.

Ricky will be cremated.  A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, March 7, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. in the Nickerson Community Center at 11 N. Nickerson St., Nickerson, KS 67561.  May Ricky's memory bring comfort to all who knew him.