Bonnie Cheaver (B.C.) Ricks Jr., 90, of Newport News, VA passed away on June 25, 2023 surrounded by loved ones.

A native of Red Oak, N.C., B.C. was born Nov. 29, 1932 to B.C. Ricks Sr. and Mamie Walker Ricks. After serving in the Korean War with the U.S. Navy, B.C. met, fell in love, and married his wife of 67 years, Nell McCoy Ricks, while working for the railroad and living in the same boarding house in Newport News, VA.

B.C. had a long career at Newport News Shipbuilding, retiring as a General Foreman in Machine Installation. B.C. and Nell were members of West Hampton Baptist Church in Hampton, VA, where he proudly served as deacon, trustee, Sunday school teacher, and food ministries provider.

From a farming family, B.C. continued farming while living in Newport News. B.C. had a green thumb and his garden supplied many meals. He had a very mechanical mind with the ability to build or fix most anything. Having less land in Newport News, animals on his "little" farm consisted primarily of rabbits, chickens, and ducks.

B.C. loved watching sports (especially Washington D.C. football), watching westerns and Charles Bronson movies, hunting and fishing with friends, and simply being outdoors as much as possible. He was active until the end, even when the care providers wished he would be less so. The family wishes to express a special thanks to Mennowood Retirement Community staff and residents, for providing a friendly environment and loving care, which our husband, brother, father, uncle, grandfather, and great grandfather appreciated as much as we did.

B.C. was predeceased by his parents; two brothers, Russell and Johnny Ray; and three sisters, Ophelia, Earlene and Barbara. B.C. is survived by his wife, Nell; sister, Shirley Jane Ricks; very special niece, Linda Gardner (Charles); daughters, Esther Hill (Brad), and Jeanne Baranowski (Larry); son, Wendell Ricks (Gail); six grandchildren, and 12 great-grandchildren.

Memorial service and celebration of life will be held at West Hampton Baptist Church in the Fellowship Hall on Saturday July 1st at 11am. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to West Hampton Baptist Church 'Heart for the House'.

Arrangements by W. J. Smith & Son Funeral Home.