Born on February 26, 1967, in Denver, Colorado, Ricky lived a life marked by service, compassion, curiosity, and unwavering love for his family.

A proud graduate of George Washington High School, Class of 1985, he dedicated himself to lifelong learning and excellence in everything he pursued. Ricky honorably served his country in both the United States Army Reserve and the United States Navy, where he specialized in information systems and technology as a Radioman. He earned the respect of those who served alongside him through his discipline, dedication, and exceptional work ethic.

Throughout his life, Ricky wore many hats and mastered many trades. He worked in construction, as an automotive mechanic, and as a chef. Whether repairing engines, building with his hands, or preparing meals for those he loved, Ricky approached every task with creativity, skill, and pride. Those closest to him knew that some of his greatest expressions of love came through the meals he prepared, where he truly was an artist in the kitchen.

Ricky was a man of many passions. He loved art and drawing, cooking, martial arts, karaoke, collecting unique treasures and oddities, and listening to music of every genre. He played both the tuba and the wooden flute, finding joy in sharing music with others. His favorite color was black, followed by red, and he never turned down a sweet treat. He enjoyed watching Star Trek, classic Westerns, The Twilight Zone, and beloved martial arts films such as Drunken Master, Shaolin Wooden Men, and countless other Kung Fu classics.

His interests extended far beyond entertainment. Ricky possessed a brilliant and inquisitive mind, with a deep love for mathematics and science. He spent countless hours studying physics, metaphysics, and quantum physics simply for the joy of learning. Academically gifted, he earned numerous accolades throughout his school years and military service for both his intellectual achievements and physical abilities. His passion for martial arts eventually led him to compete in mixed martial arts on a semi-professional level.

Above all else, Ricky will be remembered for his extraordinary heart. He had an unmatched ability to see the good in people and consistently placed others' needs before his own. Generous, selfless, humorous, and full of life, he had a gift for making those around him laugh. His playful imagination made him an unforgettable father and grandfather, often spending hours playing pretend, telling stories, and creating magical moments with his children and grandchildren. To Ricky, every toy became an adventure, every trinket had value, and every person deserved kindness.

As a young man, Ricky accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior and remained a soldier in the Army of the Lord throughout his life. His faith shaped his compassionate spirit, his love of nature, and the way he cared for those around him.

Ricky was preceded in death by his loving parents, Edie (Shelby) Martin and Jessie James Martin, Jr.; his sister, Lois Jean Martin; his beloved daughter, Alyssa Butler; and all those loved ones who welcomed him into eternal peace.

He leaves behind to cherish his memory his children, Amber Martin, Geramie Carter, and Makayla (Martin) Thomas; and his five treasured grandchildren: Elias Martin-Williams, Liora Martin-Williams, Ariyan Martin-Wall, A’Zhari Butler, and Jackson Thomas. He also leaves behind extended family, dear friends, brothers and sisters in Christ, and countless lives that were touched by his generosity, wisdom, and laughter.

Though our hearts are heavy with grief, we celebrate a life lived with purpose, courage, compassion, and joy. Ricky’s legacy lives on in the love he gave so freely, the lessons he taught, the laughter he inspired, and the family he cherished above all else.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.”

– Matthew 25:23