Ricky Jerome Haley, affectionately known as Rick, Hound, Pretty Ricky & Practice, passed away peacefully on February 25, 2025, at the age of 65, with his devoted children by his side. Born on February 14, 1960, in Lafayette, Louisiana, to the late Annice Elizabeth Haley and Burel Haley Sr., Ricky was a beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend.
Ricky was a man of many talents and passions. He proudly served in the United States Navy and later attended Southern University in Baton Rouge. He worked in offshore industries for many years, demonstrating his strong work ethic and determination. Ricky was a true country man who loved the outdoors, fishing, and sports, particularly football and basketball. He was a trailblazer as the first Black quarterback at Welsh High School and remained a devoted supporter of the Welsh Greyhounds, often attending high school games to cheer on the team.
Above all, Ricky cherished his family and his roots in Roanoke, Louisiana. He had a deep love for Roanoke, its rich history, and the strong family ties and traditions that shaped his life. He was a constant presence at family gatherings, always ready with a story, and a laugh. His laid-back personality and unwavering kindness made him a pillar of strength and love for those around him. Ricky had a deep love for music, dancing, and singing, and his faith was the cornerstone of his life.
Ricky gave his life to the Lord at a young age and was baptized as a child by the late Rufus Dyas at Mt. Triumph Baptist Church in Roanoke. He knew the Bible "backwards and forwards" and lived by its teachings, always meeting others with kindness and love, no matter the circumstances.
Ricky is survived by his loving children: Roshema Batiste, Trachessa Marks, Tranesha Marks, and J'uan Seymore; his grandchildren: Brandius Batiste, Kairo Johnson, Kasen Johnson, Zaria Johnson, Maaziah Manning, and Emrielle Manning; and his great-grandchildren: Brooks Batiste, Halo Batiste, and Bliss Batiste. He also leaves behind his siblings: Miles Kirk Haley, Vicky Pitre, Burel Haley Jr. (Dedra Haley), Gertrude Rene Haley, Shannon Dwayne Haley, and Garret Lane Haley, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will forever cherish his memory.
Ricky was preceded in death by his parents, Annice Elizabeth Haley and Burel Haley Sr.; his brother, Ernest Lee Anderson; and his grandson, Isiah D'waun Batiste.
A celebration of Ricky's life will be held on Saturday, March 8, 2025, at 1:30 p.m. at Mt. Triumph Baptist Church in Roanoke, Louisiana. Visitation is from 11:00pm- 1:30pm. Burial will be in Peterson Memorial Cemetery in Jennings la, under the direction of Mortuary Center of Southwest louisiana of Jennings