Rickey Ray Nickell, 72, of West Fork, passed away Thursday, September 25, 2025, in Fayetteville. He was born November 25, 1952, in Fayetteville to Dwight L. and Robbie E. Sandlian Nickell Ratliff.
He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Larry D. Nickell; two sisters, Carolyn Wheeler and Teresa Ratliff; and brothers-in-law, Roy Roles and Jerrell Upshaw.
Rickey was a U.S. Air Force veteran having served during the Vietnam Era. He was a Security Specialist/Patrolman with the K9 Unit. Rickey was patriotic and very passionate about our country. He liked to ride motorcycles, loved music (the Blues and Christian), and enjoyed playing the harmonica. Rickey was free-spirited, full of life, a friend to many, and passionate about helping people (especially the homeless). He loved the Lord and never met a stranger.
He is survived by his siblings, Roberta Nickell Roles of Springdale, Barbara Nickell Upshaw Smith and husband Royce of Springdale, Regina Lynne Nickell Villines and husband Johnny of Hindsville, Christopher Scott Nickell and wife Shirley of Springdale, and William “Eddie” Ratliff of Springdale; several nieces and nephews; and a host of friends.
Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Friday, October 3, 2025, at Beard’s Funeral Chapel with Pastor Gary Digby officiating. Interment will follow in Nickell Cemetery.
The family will receive friends from 1 p.m. until service-time at the funeral home on Friday.