Wendell Ricks, son of the late Solomon and Gracie Hamlin Ricks was born on March 17, 1930 in Sebell, Virginia. On January 1, 2012, he transittioned to his heavenly home to jion all of his siblings and a son who preceeded him in death. Wendell was the fourth of eight children. Wendell was an avid reader who loved to stay up to date with current events by reading the newspaper from front to back. He received his education at Douglas High School and subquently earned his General Education Diploma. After the passing of his father, he and his sister, Cleo financially supported the household so their mother could stay home to care for their younger siblings. This allowed all of his siblings to complete high school and attend college. Wendell jioned the Army on September 18, 1951 and became part of the 82nd Airborne Unit. He was awarded an honorable discharge on September 17, 1953 after the Korean Conflict War ended. Wendell was employed Bethlehem Steel. Prior to Bethlehem Steel he served as a foreman for the Baltimore City Fire Department. He was also an entrepreneur and established several businesses including neighborhood grocery stores in East and West Baltimore as well as a mobile grocery store. He was well known for his "Cherry Hill Bus", which served that community for many years. After retiring from Bethlehem Steel, he held several management positions at Chicken George and Wendy's Restaurants. He along with his sister, Doris, worked for McDonald's organizing "Breakfast Bingo" for seniors and hosting birthday parties for children. He loved to cook and show off his culinary skills to his friends and family. As a jazz enthusiast, he became friends with Monty Alexander and was often invited back stage to converse with other musicians. He and his cousin, Earl Stith, would often travel extensively to hear different jazz artists. Bobby Blue Bland and Earl Klugh were amoungst some of his favorties. Wendell was also known for his mathematical skills and photogenic memory. He was assessed to have to have had an IQ level of a math genius. Just like his math skills, he was known to have a quick wit. Wendell and his brother, Howard shared a playful competitive nature with gadgets always trying to find the latest technology. Wendell had an eye for fine tailoring and loved cloths. He also a good photographer and would carry his camera everywhere. With the love, support ad help from his sister, Chandler, and nieces, Deborah, his later years were spent i a private assisted living residence. He formed a special bond with his roommate, Billy, and his caregiver, Linda Boyd. They will always be remembered as his second family. Wendell leaves to cherish his memory and to celebrate his life; his children, Anthony Clayton, Lynett Ricks and Tia Ricks; four grandchildren, Daysha, Darius, DeSean and Courtney; two great-grandchildren DeAsia and Sahara; an Uncle, Luther "Johnny" Johnson, brothers-in-law, Roosevelt Brown Sr. and Addger Harvin Jr.; sisters-in-law, ruth C. ricks and Joyce M. Ricks; special niece, Deborah Dade; devoted care-giver, companion and friend, Linda Boyd and roommate, Billy; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.