Orville Glenn Rickard of Madison, GA, died Tuesday, July 16, 2024.
He was born in West Virginia, the son of Orville and Marie K. Rickard. He treasured his childhood on the Shenandoah River.
He loved nature and outdoor activities; fishing, hunting, watching wildlife, working with his tractor and gardening.
Orville served his country in Vietnam as a medic, earning a Purple Heart, two Bronze Stars, an Overseas Bar, an Army Commendation Medal, and a Combat Medic Badge. He credited his Lord God and Savior as his shield. His education as a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist was completed in Charleston at the Medical University of South Carolina. He practiced in several locations, but the majority of his work was in Eatonton, GA, where he spent 32 years at Putnam General Hospital. Deceased family members are father Orville and brother Ray Irvin.
The remaining family members include mother Marie, wife Judy, son Trad, and granddaughter Kiley. Brother Alan (Jane), niece Heather (Chris), nephew Ashley (Kym), and their child Atlas. Sister Joy (Deke) and nephew Derek, his child Oakley. Sister Amanda, nieces Lauren and Dayle. Brother-in-law Jim (Connie), nephew Brian (Taylor), and brother-in-law Jeff (Carrie).
Many other extended family and friends who were loved. God bless and many thanks to medical personnel caregivers, Dr. Petros Nikolinakos and staff at University Cancer and Blood Center in Athens and Greensboro, GA.
M.D. Anderson Cancer Hospital in Houston, TX, and Abbey Hospice in Social Circle, GA. In lieu of flowers the family requests any memorials be made to Abbey Hospice, 215 Azalea Ct., Social Circle, GA 30025. Orville requested a private family service.
To express condolences and sign the guest book, please visit www.williamsfuneral.net. Williams Funeral Home of Eatonton is in charge of arrangements.