Billy L. Rickard, 94, formerly of Cherry Tree, PA, died on Saturday, October 19, 2019, at Angel’s Touch Assisted Living Community in West Friendship, MD.
Billy was born at the family home in Montgomery Township on March 16, 1925 to Harry and Gladys (Jones) Rickard.
He began working in the coal industry running shuttle cars in the deep mines and later back-filling mines. Before retiring in 1987, he was running heavy equipment in strip mining. In addition, he was a mail carrier and a member of the Operating Engineers involved in road construction. Throughout his working career, he also maintained their 70 acre farm. A doctor once said to him, “If God had meant for you to be a mule, he would have sent the harness with you when you were born!” Billy was a key member of the Purchase Line United Methodist Church which he helped construct in 1985.
Following his retirement, he spent time buying antique trunks at local auctions and restoring them. He loved nothing more than spending time with his beloved Sara and family, beating everyone at a spirited game of 500 bid, and enjoying the view from his “Crow’s nest” on the front porch.
Billy is survived by his sons: Charles E. Rickard of Baltimore and Bruce A. Rickard and wife, Kathleen of West Friendship, MD; his five grandchildren: Charles E. Rickard II and wife, Sarah of Los Angeles, CA; Mary E. Sadonsky and husband, Jon of Los Angeles, CA; Megan R. Hearron and husband, Jason of Bel Air, MD; Brad A. Rickard of Ellicott City, MD and Arthur Rickard of Baltimore, MD; his seven great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.
Billy was preceded in death by Sara, his wife of nearly 75 years, his infant daughter, his parents, and his siblings: Bernice Zanella and Betty Bee.
Family and friends will be received from 2-4:00 and 6-8:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 24, 2019 at the Rairigh Funeral Home Ltd. in Hillsdale, PA, where an 11:00 a.m. funeral service will be held on Friday, October 25, 2019 with Pastor Raymond Hill officiating. Interment will be at the Thompson Cemetery in Hillsdale, PA.
