David Duane Ricketts, 69, beloved father and grandfather, passed away peacefully Thursday, May 29, 2025, surrounded by love and family.
Born in Jacksonville, Florida, February 12, 1956 David, also lovingly referred to as “Cowboy”, spent the majority of his life in his hometown, where he built a life full of colorful stories, unforgettable memories and a love for the simple things.
In 2022, he relocated to Blackshear, with his son Taylor and daughter- in-law Kristanna, along with grandchildren Gracianna, Alexandria and Elijah. There, in the quiet comfort of the countryside and the heart of his family, he spent his final years in peace, laughter, and reflection.
Known for his stubborn streak, sharp wit, and a heart that ran deeper than most ever realized, he was a man of many layers. He could frustrate you one moment and have you laughing the next, a trait Ricketts
that made him all the more endearing to those who knew him best. He loved fiercely, and in the end, he got his wish—to spend his final days at home, on the land he loved, with the people who meant the most to him.
His family will remember him not just for the challenges they overcame together, but for the grace, grit and unconditional love that carried them through. His legacy lives on in their hearts and in the stories they'll continue to share.
Survivors include his son and daughter-in -law, Taylor and Kristanna Ricketts, and his daughter Crystal Ricketts and her spouse Erin Roberts. He was the proud grandfather of Kaylee Ricketts, Gracianna Ricketts, Alexandria Ricketts, and Elijah Ricketts— each of whom brought him immeasurable pride and joy.
Rest easy, Cowboy. You are deeply loved and will be forever missed.
Memorialization was by cremation.
Sympathy may be expressed by signing the online register at www.pearsondial.com.
Pearson-Dial Funeral Home of Blackshear was in charge of arrangements.
Hazel Lena Royals Musgrove
Hazel Lena Royals Musgrove, 88, of Blackshear, passed away Friday evening, May 30, 2025, at Hospice Satilla Hospice House in Waycross.
Born in Douglas, May 25, 1937, she had lived in Homerville most of her life before moving to Ware County for a short time and finally Blackshear in 1987, where she would live and serve until her passing. After high school, she went on to obtain her practical nursing license, from which she would retire after years of helping in private medical practices in the area. She also owned and operated Christy’s Flower Shop for several years. But her greatest accomplishment was her service to the Lord, with over 30 years of service as pastor of Bethel Pentecostal Lighthouse
Musgrove
Church.
She was a daughter of the late James Carey and Annie Maude Johns Royals. She was also preceded in death by her husband, J.W. “Woody” Musgrove; a granddaughter, Crystal Gayle Davis; a sister, Betty Joyce Taylor; four brothers, Carey Royals Jr., Melvin Royals, Roy Royals, and Jackie Royals and the father of her children, James “Jim” Belch.
Survivors include three daughters, Brenda Childress, Blackshear, Donna (Steven) Groves, Folkston and Teresa (Michael) Register, Blackshear; one son, Robbin James Belch, Folkston; two sisters, Almeda Anderson, Satellite Beach, FL and Janice Smith , Fitzgerald; two brothers, Ray Royals, Micco, FL and Bobby (Teresa) Royals, Fitzgerald; five grandchildren, Courtney (RJ) Hansel, Leigh Davis, Curt Landrum, Kari (John) Fiveash and Justin (Brittany) Register; six great-grandchildren, Emaleigh Davis, Kelci Davis, Dylan Register, Aubrey Register, Dustin Fiveash and Connor Fiveash and several nieces, nephews, and other relatives.
Graveside funeral services were held at 2:30 p.m. Monday, June 2, from the Waters Cemetery with the Rev. Steve Dees officiating.
Sympathy may be expressed by signing the online register at www.pearsondial.com.
Pearson-Dial Funeral Home of Blackshear was in charge of arrangements.
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