James R. "Rickey" Young

James R. "Rickey" Young, of West Monroe, Louisiana, passed away on October 19, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

Rickey was born on January 3, 1947, in Sikes, Louisiana, to Otis and Audra Young. He dedicated 34 years of his life to BellSouth before retiring then onto working for Marconi, Emerson Network Power, and Tellabs. Never one to sit still for too long, Rickey continued working for another four years, traveling across the United States alongside his beloved wife, Patricia. During his career, he proudly served as President of the Communications Workers of America (CWA) for a number of years and was also a member of the Telephone Pioneers of America.

Rickey was a quiet, gentle man with a heart of gold. He didn't need many words to make an impact on those around him. His kindness, love, and actions spoke for themselves. He found his greatest happiness in spending time with his beautiful wife, son, grandchildren, and great- granddaughter. Whether he was deer hunting, squirrel hunting, fishing, or simply tinkering around in his shop, Rickey enjoyed the simple things in life. Those who had the privilege of knowing him will remember him as one of the kindest men they ever met.

Above all, Rickey loved his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great- grandfather, and brother whose quiet strength, gentle spirit, and unconditional love will leave a lasting impression on all who knew him.

Left to cherish his memory are his loving wife, Patricia Young; his son, Jeff Young and wife Diana; his grandchildren, Alex Young, Jake Young, Ellie Young, and Haleigh Poole husband Zachary; his precious great-granddaughter, Rileigh Poole; and his sister, Jennifer Young.

He was preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Dewana Lynn Young; his parents, Otis and Audra Young; his sister, Eloyce Garr and husband Robert; and his brother, Glenn Young and wife Jean.

Visitation will be held at Southern Funeral Home in Winnfield, Louisiana, on Thursday, October 22, 2026 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Funeral services will also be held at Southern Funeral Home in Winnfield, Louisiana, on Friday October 23, 2026 at 11:00 AM, with burial to follow at Sikes Baptist Church Cemetery in Sikes, Louisiana.

Although his presence will be deeply missed here on earth, we find comfort in knowing that he has been reunited with his precious daughter, Dewana, and all those who have gone on before him. While our hearts will ache in his absence, we will forever hold close the life lessons he taught us, the love he so freely gave, and the countless memories he created with each of us.

His was a life of quiet strength, endless kindness, and a love for his family that will live on for generations to come.