Rickey Lavon Southard, born November 18, 1952, passed away July 26, 2026, at his home in Purcell, Oklahoma with his loving family by his side.
Rickey’s life was marked by kindness, dedication and a gentle spirit. Born to Orvil and Kathleen (Hamilton) Southard, who preceded him in death, Rickey was raised with strong family values that guided his every step. He graduated from Maysville High School, laying the foundation for a life rooted in loyalty to his community and an unwavering commitment to those he loved.
Throughout his working years, Rickey built a respected career at Maysville Public School, where he served as a mechanic. He took great pride in knowing that his efforts kept things running smoothly, supporting the school and its students behind the scenes. Service extended beyond his career when he joined the Maysville Volunteer Fire Department, ultimately becoming Fire Chief. His dedication to the safety and well-being of his neighbors stood as a testament to his character, earning the respect and gratitude of all who knew him.
Rickey found joy in simple pleasures and cherished hobbies. Magnet fishing and tinkering with his Mustang provided him with moments of enjoyment and relaxation. These activities reflected his curious nature and his love of hands-on work—a passion that colored so much of his daily life.
Above all, Rickey cherished his family deeply. He shared his life with his beloved wife, Pat Southard, and enjoyed meaningful relationships with his brothers, Ed Southard and Terry Southard. The time spent together was precious to him, and his warm, genuine presence will be deeply missed. His family remembers him as a man with a pleasant spirit and a tender heart—someone about whom, truly, no one ever said a bad word.
As the community pauses to remember Rickey’s legacy, they recall a life lived in service, kindness and quiet strength. He leaves behind a lasting example of dedication to family and community, kindness in word and deed and the gentle impact of a well-lived life.
Rickey Lavon Southard will be forever remembered by all who had the privilege to know and love him.
Rickey is survived by: wife, Pat Southard, one son, five daughters, 10 grandchildren and one great-granddaughter.
Rickey is preceded in death by his parents, Orvil and Kathleen Southard, and infant daughter, Shadow Southard.
Funeral Services were Thursday, July 30, 2026, at Abundant Love Fellowship in Maysville, Oklahoma. Burial followed at Maysville Cemetery under the direction of John W. Williams of Winans Funeral Home in Maysville. Words of comfort may be sent to the family at winansfuneralhome. com.
