SACRAMENTO – Helen Ruth Ashby Rickard, age 81, of Sacramento, Kentucky, passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 3, 2026. She was born on June 29, 1944, in Sacramento, Kentucky, to the late Ovie and Louise Ashby.  She married her high school sweetheart, Billy Rickard, on December 29, 1961. Helen was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose life was centered on faith, family, and service to others. She retired from the United States Postal Service, where she faithfully served the communities of McLean and Muhlenberg Counties. Her work ethic and dedication were evident in everything she did. A longtime and active member of Towers Chapel Church, Helen taught Sunday School for many years, touching countless lives with her kindness and unwavering faith. She had a special heart for the elderly and found great joy in visiting local nursing homes, where she loved passing out candy and bringing smiles to residents. Above all else, Helen cherished time spent with her family, especially her grandchildren, whom she adored. In addition to her parents, Helen was preceded in death by her great-grandson, Colt Rickard; her sisters, Betty Williams and Margie Mae Ashby; and her brothers, Tommy Ashby, Clay Ashby, and Floyd Ashby.

She is survived by her loving husband, James “Billy” Rickard; her children, Morgan Rickard (Debbie Turley) and Sonja (Mitch) Vanover; five grandchildren, sixteen great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandson; along with several beloved nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, January 7, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. at Tucker Memorial Chapel in Sacramento, Kentucky with Bro. Robert Pierce officiating, assisted by Bro. Mike Strehl. Visitation will be on Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at 1:00 p.m. Burial will follow at West School Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the West School Cemetery Fund,
c/o Debbie Turley, 650 W. 2nd Street, Sacramento, KY 42372. Online condolences may be made at www.tuckerfuneralhomes.com.