Rickey Darnell Thompson, aged 65, entered this world on November 22, 1958, in Weirton, WV, as the seventh child born to his late parents, Louis Edward Thompson Sr. and Minnie Lee Burks Thompson.

Growing up in Weirton, Rickey graduated from Weir High School with the class of 1977 and furthered his education at the West Virginia Institute of Technology from 1979 to 1980.

In his youth, Rickey pursued modeling while residing in Marietta, GA, alongside his dear nieces Jeriene (Bonner) Willis and his sister Deane (Thompson) Bonner.

Rickey's warm presence and friendly demeanor endeared him to all who knew him. Whether he was enjoying the company of close friends on his porch or lending a helping hand at the Dunbar Center with his sister Earlene (Thompson) Jones, Rickey's generosity knew no bounds. He dedicated himself to serving the community and worked tirelessly on the African American Council of Weirton. After retiring from Nestle Health Science in June 2023, Rickey embraced his freedom with enthusiasm, traveling, attending events, and cheering on the Atlanta Braves at games, all while sharing his infectious love with his family and serving as a pillar in the Weir Ave, Weirton Community.

Rickey was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Louis and Minnie Thompson, and his sisters Azzie Mae Gregory and Viola Thompson. He leaves behind a lasting legacy through his daughter Ayreal Lenae' Thompson of Columbus, OH, his cherished grandchildren Kyree and Aria Solomon, and his siblings Deane (Jesse) Bonner, Arthur (Cecila) Thompson, Lewis (Helen) Thompson, and Earlean Jones.

Though Rickey may have departed from this earthly realm, his spirit lives on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. May his memory be a source of comfort and strength to all who mourn his loss.

A celebration of Rickey's life will be held on Friday, March 15, 2024, at the Mount Olive Baptist Church, located on Weir Avenue in Weirton, West Virginia. The family will receive friends from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, followed by a celebration of life service at noon. The Rev. Rudy McAllister will deliver the eulogy, and the burial will follow at Paris Cemetery in Paris, PA. Arrangements are entrusted to Gregory-Martin Funeral Home. For more information, please contact (304) 797-1400.