Rickey McGill

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Rickey McGill, a pillar of strength, leadership, and love, was born on March 13, 1950, in Fort Smith, Arkansas, and passed away peacefully on June 12, 2023, in Cibolo, Texas. Rickey touched countless lives with his generous, selfless, and passionate spirit, leaving a legacy of activism, education, and empowerment.

Rickey's early life in Fort Smith laid the foundation for his academic success and leadership journey. He graduated from Northside High School before attending Henderson State University, where he excelled as a student-athlete. In 1975, Rickey earned a Bachelor of Science in Education, followed by a Master of Science in Education Administration in 1994, demonstrating his life-long commitment to learning and personal growth.

With a heart full of ambition and determination, Rickey committed over 25 years of service to the State of California. His undeniable leadership skills and drive to make a difference led him to a lifetime of activism and community service. Rickey's genuine passion for uplifting others shone brightly through his work with various community organizations.

In 2015, Rickey hosted the first annual "It Takes a Village" community awards banquet in Modesto, honoring local pastors, dignitaries, schoolteachers, and community activists. As a strong advocate for justice for minorities and the underprivileged, Rickey served as a Northern Regional Delegate for the Democratic Central Committee for eight years. His affiliations with numerous organizations, including Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, INC., NAACP, Menelik Temple #36 The Desert of California Ancient Egyptian Arabic Order Nobles Mystic Shrine Inc, Frank Anderson #2 Illustrious Prince Hall Royal and Select Masters and Abyssinia #5 Most Excellent Prince Hall Holy Royal Arch Masons, jurisdiction of California, Silver Square Lodge #66 Prince Hall Free & Accepted Mason of the State of California Incorporated further illustrate his dedication to fostering positive change.

Rickey's love for coaching and fishing provided him with endless joy and opportunities to connect with others. His contagious enthusiasm brought people together and created a sense of unity and belonging. Rickey believed wholeheartedly in the power of education and encouraged everyone he encountered to pursue their dreams and destinies.

He is survived by his loving family, his children, Shawanna and Ace Butler of Maryland, Gary Fair, Tanisha McGill, and Marcus McGill all of Texas, along with seven grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Rickey's legacy lives on through his two surviving siblings, Mayor George McGill and Herbert McGill Sr. of Arkansas, and a host of nephews, nieces, and friends who cherish his memory.

As we reflect on Rickey's life and the profound impact he had on so many, we are reminded of the inspiring words of Maya Angelou: "I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." Rickey made everyone feel seen, heard, and valued, and his spirit will continue to inspire us to carry on his legacy of love, leadership, and empathy.

Rickey McGill's life serves as a shining example of what it means to be a true servant leader. His generosity, selflessness, and passion will forever be remembered by all who were fortunate enough to know him. As we celebrate Rickey's life and honor his memory, let us be inspired to live our lives with the same courage, determination, and love that he embodied every day.

Rickey McGill blazed a trail of empowerment, compassion, and unity, leaving an indelible mark on our hearts and in our communities. May his memory inspire us all to live our lives with purpose, passion, and love. In the words of Ralph Waldo Emerson, "Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail."

A celebration of life will be held Saturday, July 1, 2023, at New Covenant International Christian Center, Fort Smith, Arkansas 72904. Interment will be held at Forest Park Cemetery, 5001 Midland Blvd, Fort Smith, AR 72904. Services entrusted to Alan Smith, 4400 N North Street, Fort Smith, Arkansas 72904.

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