William Lynn Ricks was born at home on May 26, 1939, in Florien, Louisiana.

He passed away peacefully surrounded by his family, on January 10, 2022, after an extended illness.

Preceding William in death are his parents, Ruby Louise and JB Ricks.

William is survived by his loving wife, Dorothy; daughter, Lesa Giarratano and husband Mike; two granddaughters, Rachel Palombo and husband David and Rebecca Stevens and husband Matt. William also has three great-grandchildren, Andrew and Ava Palombo and Edie Stevens. His siblings are Carolyn Funderburk and husband Willis, Mary Burson and husband Hershel, and James Ricks.

Bill always had a keen interest in science and received the top award in Chemisty at the State Science Fair in Baton Rouge in 1957, earning him a scholarship to Louisiana Tech in Ruston, where he met the love of his life, Dorothy.

They were married on February 20, 1959, and moved to Orange, Texas. Together, they had one daughter, Lesa.

William worked at Firestone as a Lab and Process Control Foreman. He was a devoted husband and loving father. All who knew him saw his sweet and humble personality. He would always go out of his way to help others. William enjoyed flying airplanes, history, gardening, traveling, running in local races, and working at the Houston Temple.

He adored his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He enjoyed attending their school events and spending quality time with them. We will miss his strong hugs, his sweet smile, and long goodbyes.

Services for William will be held at 1:00 p.m., Sunday, January 16, 2022, at the Church of Latter Day Saints in Orange, Texas. Officiating will be Bishop Jason Arrington. Visitation will be from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Saturday, January 15, 2022, at Claybar Funeral Home in Orange.

Burial will be held Sunday at 2:00 p.m., at Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Ruston, Louisiana.

Serving as pallbearers will be Mike Giarratano, Eddie Welch, Gene Kole, David Palombo, James Ricks, and Matt Stevens.

A special thank you Best Hospice and Focus Care Nursing Home who gave such special care. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzeihmer's Association at http://www.alz.org