Eric Eutaw Rikard, age 69, passed away on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, at Helen Keller Hospital in Tuscumbia, Alabama. He was born on June 13, 1957, to Hubert Rikard and Cuple Green. Eric was known for his quiet nature, though those who knew him best also appreciated his sharp sense of sarcasm. He was a man of his word who treated everyone with respect. Strong and steadfast, Eric was stern when needed but slow to anger. Above all, he loved his family deeply and treasured every moment spent with them. When he wasn’t behind the wheel of his flatbed truck, he could often be found enjoying fishing. Visitation will be held on Monday, July 13, 2026, from 12:30 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. at Akins Funeral Home in Russellville, Alabama. The funeral service will immediately follow at 2:00 p.m. Burial will take place at Bethany Baptist Church Cemetery in Marion County. Eric is survived by his daughter, Erica (Montrae) Rikard; sons, Coty (Breanna) Rikard, Brandon Rikard, and Christopher Braley; grandchildren, Jasmine Rikard, Brandi Rikard, Haylee Rikard, Abrianna Mcculloch, Brody Rikard, Addison Rikard, and Zavier McCulloch; great-grandchildren, Connor Fisher, Carly Fisher, Brynlee Bolton, and Raylan Bolton; and siblings, Gina Lee, Exie (Keith) Wallace, and Euple (Natalie) Vincent, Evan Vincent. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Melisa Rikard; his son, Jason Staggs; his grandson, Benjamin Braley; his parents, Hubert Rikard and Cuple Green Vincent
