John Lee Ricks Jr.

Often referred to by his friends as Buddy or Doc, he was born in Graceville, Fl on November 20, 1940. He was the youngest of 3 children of deceased parents John and Katie Lou Ricks. He was preceded in death by brother James Kelly and sister Dorothy Kelly.

Throughout his remarkable 85 year journey, he touched countless lives with his wisdom, humor, love and compassion. He attended Graceville (Fl) High School, earned an undergraduate degree at Florida State University and a dental degree from The Medical College of Virginia.

After graduation, he moved back to Graceville and opened up his own dental practice. He moved his practice to Bradenton in 1981 and retired in 2005. He relocated to Miamisburg, Ohio with his wife Carolyn in 2024 to be closer to Carolyn's family.

Along with dentistry, golf was his lifelong passion, playing with a regular group at Tera Ceia Golf Club. He was also a big Florida State Seminole fan and a Silver Chief booster for many years.

He is survived by his loving wife of 20 years, Carolyn, daughters Lisa Williams (Todd) and Lori Van Farowe (Jim), 6 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren. He also was fortunate to have an extended family with Carolyn's children, Rachel (Jess) and Nick (Amanda), and their 4 children.

He will be remembered not only for his professional achievements and the hundreds of patients he served but also for his kindness, guidance and love he shared with family and friends throughout his life.

A Celebration of Life invitation will be sent to family and friends in the near future.