Mr. Ricky Gore, 68, of Paducah, Kentucky, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer.
Born on December 27, 1956, in Paducah, Ricky remained a lifelong resident of his beloved hometown. Growing up, he attended the original Bible Baptist Church, now known as Heartland Worship Center. He was a former employee of James Marine, Inc. for 23 years. His dedication to his work was only matched by his love and commitment to his family, including his four beloved cats, and his passion for the outdoors.
Ricky’s joys in life were simple, and his love for the outdoors was evident to all who knew him, as he spent countless hours in the serenity of nature, hunting and fishing. He was known on the river as “Little Red”. These moments by the water were some of his most cherished and where he felt most at peace. His interests included watching Kentucky basketball, participating in bowling leagues, and gardening, a pastime through which he cultivated not only vegetables but also relationships with his neighbors and friends. Ricky's garden was a place of tranquility and generosity, as he often shared the fruits of his labor with those around him.
Ricky was preceded in death by his parents, Joe F. Gore and Wanda Gore Hankins, his grandparents, Walter and Nina Gore, and Archie and Moriene Barrett, his aunt, Lena O’Nan.
Left to cherish his memory is his loving sister, Teresa Gore DeWeese and husband, Alton, of Dothan, AL; stepfather, Carl Hankins, of Paducah, KY; stepbrother Brian Hankins and wife, Kerry, of Metropolis, IL; stepsister Deena Bowman, of Marion, IL; niece, Christie Weathers and husband, Jon, of Dothan AL; nephew, Brandon DeWeese and wife, Megan, of Early Branch, SC; step nieces, Hailey Laxton, Karly Hankins Nicholas and husband Lucas, all of Paducah, KY; step nephew, Charles Beach, of Lexington, KY; great nieces, Emily Weathers and Anna Weathers of Dothan, AL; EllieKate DeWeese and Amelia Rae DeWeese of Early Branch, SC; great nephew, Mason DeWeese of Mountain Home, AR; his uncle, Johnny O’Nan, of Louisville, KY; uncle, Bill R. Barrett “Bubba” and wife, Carol, of Burna, KY. He is also survived by several loving cousins and a special family friend and neighbor, Alvie Gleeson, who was like a brother to Ricky.
Ricky’s memory will be cherished in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who were graced by the kindness of his heart and gentle soul.
The family would like to express their sincere gratitude for the outpouring of love, prayers, comfort, and many kindnesses during this time and extends heartfelt gratitude for the loving care provided by his Hospice Care Team.
A graveside service will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, May 9, 2025, at Maplelawn Park Cemetery, 1335 N. 13th Street, Paducah, KY 42001. Casual dress attire is requested by the family.
Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Paducah is in charge of arrangements.
Expressions of sympathy may take the form of a contribution to Lone Oak Animal Clinic, 125 Augusta Avenue, Paducah, KY, 42003, which will provide veterinary services for homeless animals. Please indicate the donation is to The McGangsters account (a local cat rescue), in memory of Ricky Gore.
Share a memory or leave a message for the family at www.milnerandorr.com.
