Ricky Joe Smith was born in Edgecombe County on January 6, 1961, he passed away on October 26, 2023 at ECU Edgecombe Hospital, after being surrounded by loved ones.

Ricky grew up farming with his family, eventually he started his own farm (Rick Smith Farms) - Where he did what he loved most until he was no longer able. He worked at Longs Tobacco Barn Company from the age of seventeen until he no longer could. Ricky was an avid hunter, and his life's passion was to help others find the same joy he felt. He started Fishing Creek Outfitters fourteen years ago and continued to guide until his last days. Ricky was an active member and a persistent presence in the Leggett Volunteer Fire Department for fifteen plus years. He also was a very active member of Faith Freewill Holiness Church and we know that he had a strong love for God.

Ricky was preceded  in death by his mother and father, Audrey Jean Smith and Selby A Smith, sister Robin Lou Smith, and brother Alvin Wayne Smith Sr.

Ricky leaves behind the love of his life of the past thirty-nine years Peggy Goodwin and their two children Abbie "Bud" Lane (Rob) and Kimberly "Kimi" Smith. Ricky leaves behind three siblings, Bruce A Smith Sr., Bonnie Smith (Wayne), Kathy Jackson (Roy) and an amazing group of nieces and nephews. He also leaves behind many close friends that were like family and fur babies who will miss him dearly.

Flowers can be sent to sent to Carlisle Funeral Home or donations can be made to hunter education via the NC Wildlife website in his honor.