Francis Rickard Obituary

Funeral service for Francis Rickard, with full military honors will held at 2:00 PM on Tuesday, October 21, 2025 at Lawton Ritter Gray Funeral Home.

Visitation will be held on Monday, October 20, 2025 from 3:00 pm - 8:00 pm at the funeral home.

Francis "Frank" Regan Rickard, 86 of Lawton, Oklahoma passed away on October 13, 2025.

Born on January 27, 1939 in Portsmouth, VA, Frank dedicated his life to service, honor, and integrity. A proud member of the United States Special Forces, he served his country with distinction for over 20 years. His courage, discipline, and unwavering sense of duty embodied the true spirit of the Green Beret motto: "De Oppresso Liber"- "To Free the Oppressed."

After retiring, Frank continued to serve his community with the same dedication that defined his military years. One of his greatest joys was volunteering at local high schools, where he handed out medals to ROTC graduates – encouraging the next generation of leaders with a firm handshake, a proud smile, and often, a well-timed, possibly inappropriate joke. He believed deeply in the value of service, respect, and laughter – sometimes all at once.

Frank was an avid sky diver with over 1,500 jumps; he found freedom and peace in the skies. His exceptional skill and passion for airborne operations earned him Gold Wings #50, a recognition that spoke to both his mastery and his fearless spirit. Known for his quick wit and mischievous grin, Frank could fill any room with laughter. His stories – part truth, part myth - were told with the twinkle of a man who had truly lived. Behind every joke was a man of deep compassion and unwavering dedication to family, friends, and fellow soldiers, and also a solemness that only his fellow veterans understand.

He is survived by his son Rick Rickard; daughter Deborah Rickard-Terrell; daughter Brandy Rickard-Combs; stepdaughter Kim Rogalski and her husband Richard Rogalski; stepson Terry Payne; and sister Susan Weise. He is also survived by his grandchildren and many great-grandchildren with whom he enjoyed spending time and never missed an opportunity to brag on them or crack a joke.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor Frank by taking a moment to thank a veteran, encourage a young person chasing their dream, or share a laugh with someone who needs it. That's how he lived – and that's how he'd want to be remembered.