Ricky Hutcheson

HAGAN: Ned Ricky Hutcheson, affectionately known to his family and friends as Ricky, passed away on the afternoon of August 26, 2026, at the age of 67. A kind-hearted soul and a man of deep Christian faith, Ricky left this earthly life to enter the gates of Heaven.

Born September 2, 1958, in Reidsville, Georgia, Ricky brought joy, laughter, and love to the lives of those around him. His sense of humor was unforgettable, his love of life was contagious, and his presence was truly a gift to all who knew him.

Ricky was the beloved son of Dorothea Lott Taylor and the late Ned Harry Hutcheson. He shared many of life’s adventures with his cherished partner, Donna NeSmith Durrence. He knew the deep sorrow of losing his son, Carl Aden Durrence, but continued to find great joy and love in his daughter, Wimberly Dee Smith; his son-in-law, Ralph Smith; and his precious grandchildren, Isabella Grace and Lawson Smith. His family held a very special place in his heart, and the love he had for them was immeasurable.

He was a loving brother to Randy, Rhonda, Robby, and Rachel and a treasured nephew to his aunts, Nanette Hutcheson, Betty Ann McCoy, and Ruby Hodges. Ricky was also loved by his many nieces and nephews, with whom he generously shared his humor, stories, and wisdom.

A proud member of the Claxton High School Class of 1976, Ricky carried a strong sense of friendship and community throughout his life. His strong work ethic began early. While still in high school, he worked in the parts department at McDougald Motors. He later spent many years working at NAPA before joining Royal Refrigeration, where he worked as a Service Technician. Throughout his working years, Ricky was known for his skill, dedication, willingness to lend a hand, and his ability to fix just about anything. Whether at work, with family, or among friends, Ricky was someone others knew they could count on.

Ricky was a man of deep Christian faith who loved his Lord and Savior. His faith was an important part of his life and was reflected in the kindness, grace, and love he showed to others.

He found happiness in life’s simple pleasures. Ricky loved riding motorcycles, which gave him a sense of freedom and brought him countless hours of enjoyment. He rarely missed an opportunity to watch a motorcross race, whether in person or on television. He enjoyed cruising around town in the evenings, taking in the sights and simply enjoying the ride. At home, you might find him watching an old western or working intently on a word search puzzle.

Ricky could fix just about anything. Handy and determined, there was rarely a task too big or too small for him to tackle. But perhaps one of the things people will remember most was his wonderful sense of humor. Ricky loved to laugh, and he loved making others laugh even more. His friendly nature made people feel welcome, and he had a way of making sure no one remained a stranger for long.

As we celebrate Ricky’s life, we remember the joy he found in ordinary moments, the strength of his faith, and the love he gave so freely. His legacy is one of laughter, kindness, faith, family, and friendship.

Ricky will be remembered not simply for the years he lived, but for what he gave during those years—the laughter he shared, the things he taught us, the memories he created, and the love he left behind.

His journey on this earth ended on August 26, 2026, but the stories, laughter, lessons, and love of Ned “Ricky” Hutcheson will live on in the hearts of all those blessed to have known and loved him.

Ride free, Ricky. Until we meet again.

VISITATION: Sunday, August 30, 2026, 1:00 P.M. -2:00 P.M. at Mellie NeSmith Funeral Home.

FUNERAL: Sunday, August 30, 2026, 2:00 P.M. at Mellie NeSmith Funeral Home Chapel.

BURIAL: Brewton Cemetery

REMEMBRANCE: Brewton Cemetery P.O. Box 978, Claxton, Ga., 30417

Mellie NeSmith Funeral Home in charge of arrangements

“Our Family Serving Your Family”

“Since 1917”

(912) 739-3338

www.nesmithfuneralhome.com