Enrique “Ricky” William Simmons Batista, 49, of Arab, Alabama, passed away on October 8, 2026, leaving behind a lifetime of love, cherished memories, and a family who will forever carry him in their hearts.
Born on August 8, 1977, in White Plains, New York, Ricky made Arab, Alabama, his home for more than 20 years, building a life centered around the things that mattered most to him: his faith, his family, and the people he loved.
Ricky was a man of strong faith who loved Jesus and believed deeply in the importance of family. He was a devoted husband, a proud father, a loving son, a brother, an uncle and a friend. He worked tirelessly throughout his life in a multitude of differing professions but landed on being a truck driver, demonstrating through his dedication and hard work what it meant to provide for those he loved most. His life was a reflection of his commitment to his family and his willingness to do whatever was necessary to care for them.
If you knew Ricky, you knew a few things were certain: he loved the Lord, he loved his wife and boys, he loved his mama, and he loved Alabama football. Roll Tide!
Above all else, Ricky’s greatest love was his family. His beautiful bride, Kristy, and their sons, “Will” and “Nic,” were the center of his world. The love he held for them was immeasurable, and the life they built together will forever be part of his legacy.
He leaves behind his loving wife, Kristy Batista; his sons, “Will” & “Nic” and Haley; his mother, Deborah Simmons McGinniss; and his father, Dorge Batista. His mother-in-law, Michelle Bishop. His Aunt, Joyce Bramlett and Uncles Nakia, Billy, and Michael Hobby.
He is also survived by his siblings and their families: Tianna and Taylor; Joshua, Brittney, Victoria, Jareth, and Connor; Bethany, John (Braxton), Courtney, and Myles; Matthew and Madison; RebekahLee, Tre, Jayden, Amari, and Makiya; and Jessica, Darren, Holly (CJ), Lilly, Arthur, Casey, Jacee, and Jesse.
Ricky’s passing leaves an emptiness that words cannot adequately describe. But his story does not end with his passing. It continues in the lives of his children, his nieces and nephews, in the memories shared by his family, in every Alabama football game watched in his honor, and in the faith he carried throughout his life.
While our hearts ache for the moments we will no longer share, we find comfort in knowing that Ricky’s love for Jesus was an important part of who he was.
We will remember his hard work, his devotion, his passions, and, most importantly, the love he had for his family.
Rest peacefully, Ricky. Your work here is done. Your love remains, your memory lives on, and you will forever be part of us.
“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.” — 2 Timothy 4:7 (KJV)
