Ricky Smith

It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Ricky Smith Sr. of Waterbury, Connecticut. Ricky departed this life surrounded by his loving family, leaving behind a lifetime of cherished memories, laughter, and love.

Ricky leaves to cherish his memory his loving parents, Charlie and Annie Mae Eason of Waterbury, Connecticut; his three beloved children, LaShonda Nealy of Waterbury, Ricky Smith Jr. of Thomaston, and Mia Smith of Watertown.

His loving siblings also survive him: Frankie (Angela) Smith of Chicago; Annette (Dana) Smith-Goulborne of Waterbury; Patricia (Malcolm) Hughes of Florida; Chris (Taloria) Eason Sr.; and Charlie (April) Eason Jr. of Waterbury. Above all, Ricky enjoyed spending time with his Aunt Mattie Stallings and his cousin Jerry Smith, who was like a brother.

Ricky also leaves behind several aunts and uncles, cousins and great-cousins, cherished nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, extended family members, and friends who held a meaningful place in his heart.

Ricky attended the Waterbury Public School System, where his natural athletic abilities and enthusiasm for sports were evident from an early age. An avid swimmer, Ricky became so skilled in the water that he eventually began teaching swimming classes. His athletic talents extended to football and basketball, where he played basketball in church leagues inside and outside of Waterbury. Ricky was truly gifted in sports, demonstrating both remarkable ability and a willingness to share his talents with others, especially in gymnastics.

Following graduation, Ricky proudly enlisted in the United States Army, answering the call to serve his country. Upon returning home, he began a career at Southbury Training School, where he worked for many years. He later continued his professional journey with The Connection, Inc., where he remained employed until his retirement.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Ricky was a man of extraordinary talent, resourcefulness, and generosity. He was especially gifted at working with his hands and took great pride in his ability to build, repair, and restore almost anything. From repairing furnaces, boilers, and electrical systems to installing flooring, laying bathroom tile, painting, and working on automobiles, Ricky approached every project with confidence and skill. He also worked at a housing complex and frequently took on additional repair projects in his spare time.

Ricky's talents were matched only by his willingness to help others. Whether a family member needed a home repair, a friend needed assistance with a vehicle, or someone needed an extra pair of hands, Ricky was always willing to lend his time and expertise. No task seemed too big or too small. If Ricky could help, he would.

Ricky also had a playful and adventurous spirit. He enjoyed flying drones, operating remote-controlled cars, and exploring anything that let him create, build, or discover something new. One of his greatest joys was sharing these interests with his great-nieces and great-nephews. He lovingly taught them how to build and fly kites and operate remote-controlled gadgets, creating special moments and lasting memories they will carry for years to come.

Above all, Ricky was known for his unforgettable sense of humor. He had a natural gift for making people laugh, often leaving family and friends in tears from his jokes, expressions, and hilarious antics. His personality could brighten any room, and his presence brought joy to gatherings both large and small.

One of Ricky's most memorable jokes was his famous voicemail greeting: "You have reached the Love Doctor. Doctor's name, Rick." Family and friends would laugh every time they heard it, and even some of his doctors couldn't resist commenting on his humorous message. It perfectly reflected Ricky's playful personality and his ability to find laughter in everyday life.

Affectionately known as "Rambo" by those who enjoyed his hilarious antics, Ricky made ordinary moments extraordinary. Whether spending time with his brothers and sisters, cousins, aunts and uncles, nieces and nephews, or lifelong friends, he brought laughter, warmth, and an unmistakable energy that made every gathering more memorable.

Family was always at the center of Ricky's life. He took tremendous pride in the accomplishments and well-being of those he loved. Ricky was known for showing up unexpectedly at the homes of his nieces, nephews, and other relatives to check on them and make sure everyone was doing well. These unannounced visits were among the many ways he expressed his love and concern.

Ricky made certain that his family knew they could depend on him. Whether they needed advice, assistance with a project, a helping hand, or simply someone to make them smile, he was always just a phone call away.

Ricky leaves behind a beautiful legacy of service, generosity, humor, and unconditional love. He will be remembered not only for his remarkable abilities and willingness to help others, but also for the laughter he inspired, the lessons he shared, and the countless ways he made those around him feel loved.

Though his physical presence will be deeply missed, his spirit will live on through the memories he created, the lives he touched, and the love he so freely gave.

Forever loved, forever remembered, and forever in our hearts.

Rest peacefully, Ricky. Your laughter, love, and legacy will never be forgotten.

A funeral service for Ricky Smith Sr., will be held on Friday, November 13, 2026 at Zion Baptist Church, located at 137 Pearl Street, Waterbury, CT. Viewing will take place from 10am with the service following at 11am. Burial will follow in New Pine Grove Cemetery. Funeral arrangements have been trusted to Colonial Funerals, 270 West Main Street, Waterbury, CT and James R. Sanders, Funeral Director.  Condolences may be expressed at Colonialfunerals.com.