Rickey Dean Moss' Obituary
Rickey Dean Moss
November 2, 1951 – July 30, 2025
Rickey Dean Moss was born in Carbondale, Illinois, on November 2, 1951, the son of Albert and Imogene (Burns) Moss. In his younger years, he attended Marion First Apostolic Church. He loved playing the drums during services and also served as the sound technician at Grange Hall Church. Later in life, he attended Purpose House in Herrin, Illinois, and Parkview Church in Palm Coast, Florida. Rick had a deep and unwavering love for the Lord.
In January 2025, Rick was diagnosed with Dedifferentiated Chondrosarcoma. He fought a courageous battle with cancer and passed away at the age of 73.
Rick dedicated 38 years of his working life to GTE and Verizon Telephone Company. In 2023, he moved to Palm Coast, Florida, where he built his dream home in Matanzas Lakes and proudly served as Vice President of the HOA board. He cherished his friends and neighbors in the community and was deeply grateful for their presence in his life.
On February 15, 2003, Rick was united in marriage to Cheryl at Fountain of Life Church in Cambria, Illinois. Together, they were blessed with three sons: Chris and his wife Stacy Moss, Jeff and his wife (AJ) Sara Richey, and Michael and his wife Hannah Smothers. Rick was the proud grandfather of four grandchildren—Cody Moss, Jace Smothers, Harper Smothers, and Kade Jolee (KJ). He loved watching them play baseball, basketball, and softball, and enjoyed fishing with them whenever he could.
Rick and Cheryl also shared the love of their two Maltese dogs, Chloe and Izzy—the little girls they never had. He also had two grandkitties, Sailor and Jefe Richey, and is survived by several cousins, nieces, and nephews. A heartfelt thank-you goes to the family who came to visit and support him during his illness: Mike, Carol Moss, Heidi, and Carley—your love and presence meant the world.
Rick was preceded in death by his parents and his in-laws, Luther and Violet Frey.
A celebration of life will be planned at a later date.
A message to my love: To have been loved so deeply—even though you are gone—will give me protection forever. Sleep tight, my love. You are no longer suffering. I love you.
Heritage Funeral and Cremation Service is in charge of the arrangements.
What’s your fondest memory of Rickey?
What’s a lesson you learned from Rickey?
Share a story where Rickey's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Rickey you’ll never forget.
How did Rickey make you smile?

