Anthony "Tony" Jefferson Ricks

Anthony "Tony" Jefferson Ricks, 83, passed away peacefully on February 2, 2025, in Phoenix, Arizona, after a valiant short battle with an aggressive stage 4 cancer. Born June 28, 1941, in Philadelphia, PA, to Leroy Bond and Corlis Ricks, Tony grew up in Chester, PA, & when older he had moved to NY, CO, CA, Germany, etc. eventually settling in Phoenix, AZ, in 1978.     

A proud U.S. Army veteran, Tony served 20 years, including nearly 12 as an Army National Guard Recruiter, shaping the futures of many. His entrepreneurial spirit led him through diverse careers, from a dog catcher, pig farmer, door to door bill collector, and a metal recycler. A music lover & tech gadget enthusiast, he was known for his and generous soul—even at his own expense. Tony lived life on his terms, and his legacy of service and resilience endures.     

Tony preceded in death by his daughter Toni Marie Ricks (1/27/25), his son Dominick Ricks Sr (3/20/21), father Leroy Bond, mother Corlis Ricks, great-grandson Sean Ricks, Aunts and Uncles Edna Morgan (Arthur) and Mary Gibbs (Ernest), & dear cousins Brenda Benn (George) and Renee Marshall. Tony is survived by his children: Mark Ricks (Catherine), Tracy Hopkins (Ronald), Elizabeth Ricks-Okolo (Henry), Matthew Ricks (Ayesha), Chiffon Ricks-Nelson, Penny Ricks (Terry Craighead), Andres Ricks, Anthony Jay Ricks, Beatrice Ricks, Gino Garcia, and Sara Williams; Best Friend/Cousin: Michael Gibbs Sr; Sister: Julia; In addition, a huge host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, and devoted cousins.  

Viewing Monday 3/3/2025 @ 11am - 12pm @ Samaritan Funeral & Cremation | 1505 E McDowell Rd | Phoenix, AZ 85006

Graveside VA Burial Service with military honors: 3/3/2025 @ 12:50pm | Veterans National Memorial Cemetery | 2929 E Pinnacle Peak Rd  | Phoenix, AZ 85024 

 REPASS: Fellowship & Eat – Tony’s House (Glendale)Rest easy, Sergeant First Class Anthony Jefferson Ricks—your mission is complete.

Acknowledgment of Gratitude: The family sincerely thanks everyone listed & not listed for their love & support during Dad's final weeks/month of transition. We promise, Dad recognized your support. A special thank you of appreciation to devoted ex-wives Margaret Ricks, Virginia Ricks, Elizabeth Ricks & Dianne Taylor for their unwavering visits/contacts/concerns. We’re deeply grateful to the Phoenix VA Med. Ctr & VA Hospice Ward’s doctors, nurses, and support staff for all their compassionate care. Heartfelt appreciation to Home Health RNs(3yrs): Ms. Lyrica & Mr. Manny, Eternity Hospice RN: Mr. George H., and My True Joy Home Health Aides: Ms. Isis R. & Ms. Valerie and Samaritan Funeral Services...for all their hard work, kindness and dedication. Not once did these supporters ask for anything. Your support brought comfort and we are forever grateful...Thank you from the children of Anthony J. Ricks.