Ricky Chico Barnett

Born on November 15, 1967, to Walter “Barney” and Beatrice “Bea” Barnett, Ricky was the youngest of four sons — and the apple of his mother’s eye. He was raised in Cleveland’s Glenville neighborhood and attended elementary, middle, and high school in the Cleveland Metropolitan School District (CMSD), including Miles Standish Elementary, Empire Junior High, and Lincoln-West High School. In his youth, he enjoyed fishing with his parents and beloved brother, Walter Jr. “Butch,” and developed a lifelong love for fishing, the ocean, and lighthouses.

Ricky was an incredibly handsome young man, voted “Prettiest Hair” by Lincoln-West’s Class of 1986 and known for his striking green eyes and captivating smile. Throughout his life, Ricky was also known for his quick wit and natural charm, especially with young people. His generosity of gifts and time also followed him throughout his life.

After graduation, Ricky began working in operations at Kaufmann’s Department Store (now Macy’s). In 1992, Ricky married his childhood friend, JaNette Jefferson. The following year, he accepted Christ as his personal Savior through baptism at Evening Star Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Rev. Alvin T. Jones.

In 1996, Ricky and JaNette were blessed with one son, Caleb Daniel. During Caleb’s childhood, Ricky was a devoted father who shared and nurtured his love of cartoons and superheroes. Each Saturday morning, they could be found together watching reruns of Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? or the latest Marvel or DC movie; Marvel Avengers (e.g., the Incredible Hulk and Captain America) and the DC Justice League (e.g., Batman) were his favorites. Ricky was also an avid music fan and especially loved 80s and 90s R&B and pop music; his playlist included everyone from Madonna to Michael Jackson, and from Atlantic Starr to The Deele; his all-time favorite song was “Sailing” by Christopher Cross.

Ricky also shared (and modeled) a strong work ethic. For many years, he worked full-time at FirstEnergy and part-time at UPS — until a work-related accident sidelined his career. Refusing to let any disability define him, Ricky stayed active by doing handyman work for friends and family. He always lent a helping hand to anyone in need, installing dozens of ceiling fans and hanging tens of televisions. 

Ricky’s generosity went far beyond his gifts of handyman work. He was always willing to lend a hand to anyone in need, no matter the request. Also, a kid at heart, Ricky was especially generous with young people. He became affectionately known as the “Candy Man” by the neighborhood children because he made sure every child walked away with at least one piece of candy.

Years later, Ricky and JaNette went from husband and wife to close, lifelong friends. Four years ago, Ricky was blessed to find love again when he met his soulmate, Nicole Bledsoe. Ricky and Nicole quickly became inseparable, finding everyday joy and love in one another from the start. Ricky also came to adore Nicole’s grandson, Damari, who affectionately called him “PawPaw.” In recent years, Ricky faced an increasing number of serious health challenges and hoped for a kidney transplant. On the morning of Saturday, April 11th, God called Ricky home; Nicole remained steadfast and was by his side until he took his last breath. 

Ricky was preceded in death by both of his parents, Walter and Beatrice Barnett. He leaves to cherish his memory his son, Caleb Barnett (Amy); his loving partner, Nicole Bledsoe and cherished grandson, Damari Cox; his brothers, Larry Barnett (Julie), Walter Jr. “Butch” Barnett (Veda), and Ronald “Ronnie” Barnett (Oretha); his dear childhood friends, Eric Conwell and John Boyd; and his caring neighbors, Charles Sanders, Susan Norris, and the Olivo family; along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.