Rickey Don Young Sr., age 71, passed away on February 15, 2026. He was born on March 12, 1954, Rickey lived a life defined by loyalty, love, and a passion for the things that brought him joy.
Rickey was a devoted husband who shared a beautiful life with his loving wife, who preceded him in death on December 21, 2025—just shy of two months before his passing. Their bond was one of deep love and unwavering commitment, a true example of lifelong partnership.
He was a loving dad, a proud and wonderful granddaddy, and a steady presence in the lives of those who knew him best. His family was his greatest accomplishment and his proudest joy.
Rickey had a deep love for Harley-Davidson motorcycles, the thrill of drag racing, and Dale Earnhardt. The roar of an engine, the smell of rubber on the track, and the freedom of the open road reflected his bold spirit and love for life.
He was preceded in death by his beloved granddaughter, Taylor Elizabeth Letson; his great-grandson, Grayson Wray Young; his father, Hubert Walter Young; his mother, Rosa Lee Wood Young; his brother, Dewayne Young; and his sister, Vanessa Young.
Rickey leaves behind a family who will forever cherish his memory: His daughters, Danita Dale Young “DeeDee” (Frankie Harris) and Robie D. Letson (Doug Letson); His sons, Hubert Brice Young and Rickey Don Young; His grandchildren: Joseph Don Bailey (Haley Beth Bailey), Amber Nicole Letson, Makenzie Marie Letson, Jordan Don Young, Gavin Nathaniel Young, Cameron Dewayne Young, Abbie Claire Young, Victoria Young, Isaiah Young, Andrew Young, Isabella Young, and Selah Grace Young; His great-grandchildren: Gunner Joseph Bailey, Isabella Sue Bailey, and Karson Scott Bailey.
A Celebration of Rickey’s life will be held on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. at Tunsel Baptist Church in Hartselle, Alabama.
Rickey will be remembered for his strength, his dedication to his family, and the unmistakable sound of laughter and engines he loved so much. Though he is now reunited with the love of his life and those who went before him, his legacy lives on in every story shared, every race watched, and every mile traveled in his honor.
He will be deeply missed and forever loved.
Shelton Funeral Home assisted the family.
