Thomas "Ricky" Word

Thomas "Ricky" Word, a remarkable soul whose life embodied love, adventure, and laughter, passed away at the age of 72 on February 12, 2025, peacefully in his home surrounded by his loved ones. A funeral service will be held on Friday, February 21, 2025, at the Wilson Orwosky Chapel in Emory, Texas at 2PM. A visitation will be held one hour prior, at 1PM at the Wilson Orwosky Chapel. Interment will follow at Hooker Cemetery, in Point, Texas. 

He grew up in Bearden, Arkansas, where he developed a strong work ethic early on working on his family farm. He worked as a commercial logger and owned and operated his own diesel mechanic shop for heavy equipment. Thomas proudly served in the Air Force for six and a half years, an experience that shaped his character and further instilled a sense of service.

In 1971, Ricky married his best friend and the love of his life, Patricia Word (Tamburo). Their marriage was a testament to love and companionship, built on shared adventures and cherished memories. Together, they created a life full of joy, laughter, and a deep bond that was an inspiration to all who knew them. Thomas was a devoted father, pouring his heart into raising his children, always striving to provide them with love and security.

A man of many interests, Ricky had a special connection with animals, horses in particular, he always surrounded himself with livestock. He possessed an adventurous spirit, embracing the outdoors with a passion for fishing and motorcycle riding. He was gun enthusiast as well as a black belt in combat karate.

Beyond these passions, he was known for his warm personality and playful sense of humor as a jokester. Those who were blessed to share moments with him will fondly remember his caring demeanor, kindness, and the genuine love he poured into all aspects of his life.

Ricky leaves behind a legacy marked by devotion and generosity. His family—his proudest accomplishment—may simultaneously grieve the loss of a beloved husband and father while celebrating the life of a man whose love and laughter brightened their days. His adventurous soul, kind heart, and loving spirit will be profoundly missed by all who knew him.

He is survived by his loving and devoted wife Patricia Word (Tamburo); children, Rhonda Pearson and Eric, Tommy Word, Brint Word and Sara; grandchildren, Zachary Pearson and Aleana, Victoria Burns and James, Kayden Pearson, Devon Word and Haylee, Christian “CJ” Word and Amber, Logan Word, Madison Word, Brantley Word; great grandchildren, Haven Word, Gideon Word, Isla Word, Lincoln Bentle, Marcy Burns, Luna Burns, Kinsley Burns, Lyndon Burns, Ellowynne Burns; Siblings, Linda Burns, Sammy Word and Debbie, Robby Word and Brenda, David Word and Trudy, Tony Word and Susan, as well as numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

Ricky is preceded in death by, his parents, Thomas Wesley Word and Louise Word (Lee).