It is with deep sadness and loving remembrance that we celebrate the life of Ricky Shields, a remarkable man whose greatest joys were faith, family, music, hard work, creativity, and the beauty of the outdoors. He passed away July 15 at his home in Stephenville, Texas at the age of 75. There will be a funeral service at Lewis Arriola Community Center on Tuesday, July 28 at 10 AM with a luncheon to follow.

Ricky was born May 5, 1951, and spent his childhood at Goodman Point, helping on the family farm and attending the small country schoolhouse there. From an early age, he developed the strong work ethic that would define his life. Family members often recalled how, as a young boy, he drove a tractor while still so small that passersby thought the tractor was driving itself! He later attended and graduated from Cortez High School.

Music was the heartbeat of Ricky's life. Rarely passing up an opportunity to pick up a guitar, he found joy in sharing music with others. Whether performing with local bands, playing alongside family and friends, or simply entertaining those gathered around him, Ricky's music brought people together. His songs filled countless rooms with dancing, laughter, and cherished memories.

Whether working as a long-haul trucker or hauling gravel that helped build countless roads all over the four corners, Ricky took pride in hard work and a job well done. Some of his fondest memories are from the Dolores River Line Camp where he spent many summers performing on stage and working side by side family and friends preparing food. The chuckwagon was more than a place to eat. It was a testament to Ricky’s passions, a gathering spot for music, stories, friendship, and the simple joys of life that he treasured most.

He cherished time spent hunting and fishing and appreciated the quiet beauty of rivers, mountains, and open spaces. Nature brought him the same sense of fulfillment and freedom that he found in music. He also enjoyed photography, and trying to capture the beauty of the world around him.

Rick leaves behind a lifetime of memories woven through family gatherings, campfires, songs shared among friends, and quiet moments spent in the places he loved most. He’ll be remembered for his kind heart, easy smile, and ability to make any gathering brighter with a song, a story, or a well-prepared meal. While his absence leaves a space that can never be filled, his spirit lives on in the traditions he carried forward, and the countless lives he touched along the way. In his later years he spoke more frequently about his Savior Jesus Christ and the anticipation of going home to heaven.

He was preceded in death by his father, Robert ("Bob") Shields, and his mother, Barbara Shields. He is survived by his loving wife, Kathi Shields; his sons, Kolby Shields and Richard Shields; grandchildren Johnee Wright, and Bowdrie Shields, and his sisters, Donna Howe, Teresa Black, and Krista Lewis.