Patsy Ruth Rickard's Obituary
Patsy Ruth Rickard, beloved wife of 62 years, parent, grandparent, great-grandparent, sibling,
and friend, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on August 28, 2024 at the age of 82.
She was born on March 18, 1942 in Nashville, Tennessee and was the only child of Alma
Christine Neese and Ewing Lee Chumney.
Patsy was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, where she found joy in
serving others and strengthening her faith. She faithfully fulfilled various callings throughout her
life, including Relief Society President, Young Women’s President, Primary Teacher, Seminary
Teacher, and Matron in the Nashville, Tennessee Temple. Patsy had a deep testimony of the
gospel of Jesus Christ and lived her life with kindness, humility, and devotion.
Patsy married Gerlie Rickard where they were sealed for time and all eternity in the Mesa
Arizona Temple on September 12, 1962, and together they built a loving home centered on the
teachings of Christ. She cherished her family and was a devoted mother to Tina, Lisa, Karisa,
Stephen, and Tisha and was a doting Mamaw to 13 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.
Patsy loved to read the scriptures, took great pride in doing genealogy work, crocheting,
quilting, needle point, and knitting afghans for her grandchildren and great grandchildren. Her
legacy of faith and love will continue to inspire those who knew her.
Patsy is survived by her husband Gerlie Rickard. Children and their spouses Christina and
Bernard Leadon, Lisa and Earl Torkell, Karisa and Brett Pace, Stephen Rickard, Tisha
Rickard-Nolen. Grandchildren and their spouses: Kristopher Rickard, Bret Shaw (Kayla),
BreAnn Samuels (Eric), Mary Paige Stroud (Benjamin Hatchell), Bailey Clark (Chase), Spencer
Sartain, Tree Lilly Butcher (Matthew), Marli Hickerson (Charles), Jacob Pace (Colsi), Olivia
Pace, Grayson Torkell, Hope Torkell, Anthony Pace (Nicole), Ian Leadon. Great-Grandchildren:
Boston and Gentry Rickard; Rory, Reed, and Baylor Shaw; Walt, Caroline, and Emery Clark;
Theo Butcher; August Hatchell; Daisy James Hickerson; Jake Pace; Gabriel and Miyah Pace;
Ellis Anne Leadon; sister Camilla Mallicote. She is preceded in death by her parents Alma Christine Neese and Ewing
Lee Chumney; Her sister Sharon Reed, and her brother Steve Demarcus.
Patsy’s family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude for the love and support shown to them
during this time. They find comfort in knowing that Patsy has returned to the loving arms of our
Heavenly Father and will be reunited with loved ones who have gone before.
What’s your fondest memory of Patsy?
What’s a lesson you learned from Patsy?
Share a story where Patsy's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Patsy you’ll never forget.
How did Patsy make you smile?