James Richard "Ricky" Hamby, a cherished soul known for his kindness, handiness, and friendly demeanor, passed away peacefully on May 24, 2024, in Greenville, SC, at the age of 67. Born on January 19, 1957, in Maryville, TN, to Jessie James "Son" Hamby and Ruby Strickland Hamby, Ricky grew up to be a man who valued family, hard work, and the simple pleasures of life.
Ricky attended Travelers Rest High School, where he formed lasting friendships and discovered his love for operating heavy equipment. Further honing his skills, he attended Greenville Technical College for two years. His professional life was marked by a fulfilling career as a heavy equipment operator and grader. Ricky's entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish Hamby Lawn Service, where his dedication and expertise were evident in every well-manicured lawn and garden he tended to.
In his personal life, Ricky was a devoted to Joye Garrison Hamby and a Elizabeth Hamby. He was a pillar of strength and love for his parents, Jessie and Ruby, and his sisters, Debbie Terrell (married to Jimmy) and Tammy Lynn Hamby. Ricky's legacy of love and laughter will live on through his sons, Robert James "Robbie" Hamby (married to Ashley) and Benjamin Adam "Adam" Hamby (his best friend, Holly F. Kopp). His grandchildren, Austyn James Hamby and Jordan Caroline Hamby Jeter, will forever cherish their memories with their doting grandfather.
Ricky's extended family included his sister-in-law, Crystal Stephens, and her children, Alyiah, Aubrie, and Cam. He was a beloved stepfather to Alysha Clark, Kayden Clark, Jeremiah Brannon, Braylen Stephens, and step-daughter Miranda Joye Owens (married to Jeff). His niece, Jessie Mayer (married to Justin), nephew, Eric Terrell (married to Jennifer), grand niece Cheyenne Mawyer, Addison Terrell, and grand nephews Stetson Mawyer and Bryson Terrell, will all miss his guidance and gentle spirit.
An avid fisherman and golfer, Ricky found solace and joy in the great outdoors. His passion for these hobbies was only surpassed by the pleasure he took in sharing them with his friends and family, creating memories that would last a lifetime. Ricky's presence on the green and by the water will be deeply missed by those who knew him and shared in these pastimes.
Ricky's friends and family will remember him as a man who could fix almost anything, a trait that often found him helping others in their times of need. His ability to make friends wherever he went spoke volumes about his warm and welcoming nature.
As we bid farewell to Ricky, we are reminded of the impact he had on all who knew him. His laughter, his generous spirit, and his unwavering support will be deeply missed but never forgotten. Ricky's life was a testament to the power of kindness, hard work, and the importance of cherishing every moment with those we love.
A life so beautifully lived deserves to be beautifully remembered. Please join us as we celebrate Ricky's life and the indelible mark he left on the hearts of so many. His light will continue to shine through the lives of those he touched, guiding us with the memories we hold dear.
James Richard "Ricky" Hamby's journey on this earth was a beacon of friendship and love, and while his passing leaves a void, the stories and lessons he imparted will continue to resonate with us all. Rest in peace, Ricky, knowing you were loved beyond measure and your legacy will endure.