A Legacy of Strength: Honoring Rickie Lee Smathers Jr.

A Legacy of Strength: Honoring Rickie Lee Smathers Jr.

Some people face trials that would break most, yet they rise every time, stronger than before. Rickie Lee Smathers Jr. was one of those rare souls.

At just thirteen years old, he fought and survived his first brain tumor—a battle that would repeat two more times in his life. Each time, he refused to let it define him. He chose resilience. He chose service. And for 15 years, he dedicated himself as a correctional officer, working tirelessly to provide a stable life for his wife and their four children. Raven is also a dedicated Police Officer.

Recently, Rickie and his wife had reached a milestone they had been working toward for years. After sacrificing, saving, and living modestly in a trailer they had paid off, they finally got the approval for their dream home. On Friday, February 28, Rickie signed the contract, officially securing the home his family had been waiting for.

That same night, just hours after celebrating this victory, Rickie suffered a massive stroke. Despite every effort to save him, he passed away the next evening at 6:00 PM.

Rickie’s wife and children now face an unimaginable reality—not only grieving the loss of an incredible husband and father, but also facing the heartbreaking truth that she does not qualify for the home on her own.

This home was Rickie’s final gift to his family—a place where his children could grow up knowing the security he worked so hard to give them. We refuse to let that dream die with him.

How You Can Help

We are rallying together to raise the funds needed to purchase this home for his family. Every dollar brings them closer to the life Rickie wanted for them. If you are moved by his story, we ask you to donate, share, and support in any way you can.

Rickie never gave up on his family. Let’s make sure his family never has to give up on his dream.

Donate today. Help us honor his legacy.