Mary Ricks, 75
July 23, 1936 —
March 13, 2012

Mary Elizabeth Ricks was born into this world on July 23, 1936, in Chicago, to the union of Dr. Aldon Leslie Logan and Leah Lucilla Logan. She began her formal education in the Chicago Public School system.

Then, during her early years, her father moved the family to Michigan, where they settled in Newberg Township. Mary, affectionately called “Tootsie” by her family and many friends, continued her education in the Marcellus School System.
Shortly after graduating from Marcellus High School in 1954, Mary returned to Chicago to live with an older sister, Leah. Having become a proficient typist, she held a number of various clerical positions during her early working years.
Mary met and married Orvel Ricks in Chicago. They were married on Nov. 22, 1960, and to their union, a son, Paul Anthony Ricks, was born.
Mary became an excellent homemaker and was a voracious reader. Reading was one of her great loves and she often read one or more books a week. She also enjoyed cooking and baking.
During her early womanhood, she experienced formidable health problems that plagued her throughout life. However, she met each one head on with a strength and resolve that never wavered.
She was a warm, caring and cheerful person by nature.
In 1987 Mary, Orvel and Paul moved from Chicago and established residence in the quaint, peaceful Village of Marcellus. Many happy years followed.
Mary fell ill for the final time during February of this year and as a result, she was hospitalized for a period of time. She came home during early March and continued fighting, but lost this final battle.
She passed peacefully into the arms of her Lord during her sleep on the night of March 13, 2012.
Her life on this earth was a shining example of quiet courage, inner strength and beauty of spirit. She leaves a void that can never be filled and her memory will be forever cherished by those who knew and loved her. Indeed, her living has not been in vain. Just as we know that God’s eye is on the sparrow, we also know that He shall surely watch over her soul.
Mary was preceded in death by her parents; three sisters, Ersel Lois Armstrong, Leah Virginia Ball, Marguerite Carolyn Buck; and one brother, Aldon Leslie Logan, Jr.
Mary leaves to mourn her memory, her loving husband and very best friend, Orvel; her dear son, Paul Anthony; her precious granddaughter, Jovonne Marcelle; and many nieces, nephews and family members. She will also be missed by a host of friends and acquaintances, especially her lifelong friend, Barbara Reid.
Family and friends will gather on Wednesday, March 21, from 10 a.m. until time of service at 11 a.m. at Connelly Chapel Wagner Family Funerals, 202 N. Broadway St., Cassopolis, with the Apostle Christopher Pittman officiating. Mrs. Ricks will be laid to rest in Marcellus Cemetery in Marcellus.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Connelly Chapel Wagner Family Funerals, Cassopolis. Online condolences may be sent to wagnercares.com.
There is a link that death cannot sever, for love and remembrance last forever