Frederic A. Thaxton Jr

On May 8, 1951 Frederic Alphonso Thaxton, affectionately known as Ricky, was born to Fred (Freddie) and Mildred (Ninnie) Thaxton, both preceded him in death. He was baptized on May 9, 1984 at Ray of Hope Baptist Church. On June 25, 2022, Ricky passed away at the age of 71. Ricky was the first born and only son to Freddie and Mildred Thaxton. Ricky was also the first grandchild on both sides of the family and the only grandson to his paternal grandmother, Ruby Sergio, who adored him. As the big brother to his 6 sisters, Joyce, Joan, June, Judy, Jackie, and Janet, his terms of endearment was to bestow them with nicknames like “Ugly and Uglier, Ugly Duckling, Frog and Foot Ninja”. When he was younger, he found much pleasure in harassing his sisters as a babysitting avoidance tactic. His idea of watching the girls was to make them sit in the dark on the sofa, without speaking and raising their hands to use the bathroom! The Temptations were Ricky’s favorite musical group and he listened to their albums so much that his family also developed an affinity for the group. However, when he played his LP’s, it was best to listen with him quietly because if he heard you singing the songs, he would quickly change the record. Ricky loved watching old westerns, old sitcoms and crime shows. “The Beverly Hillbillies” was one of his favorites and he would laugh so “loud and hearty” it was contagious! Ricky loved food and his mom, Ninnie, as he affectionately called her, was an excellent cook. He enjoyed a well-prepared home cooked meal and his favorites were spare ribs and banana pudding. Ricky treasured his friends and they returned the fondness. They had many nicknames for him such as “Slick Rick”, “Ricky T”, “Nevada”, “Tic” and “Smokey Robinson”, who many thought he favored. He was definitely a sports enthusiast, a die- hard Ravens fan, a smooth dancer and a very stylish dresser. Ricky graduated from Edmondson High School in 1969. He worked various jobs until he decided to return to school. From 1992 until 2008 Ricky was a scholar. He earned his Associates Degree in Human Services from Baltimore Community College, his Bachelor of Science degree in Applied Psychology from Coppin State University, and later received his Master’s degree in Education with a focus in Rehabilitation Counseling also from Coppin State University. Ricky was a Licensed and Certified Addiction Counselor and he had a certificate in Counselor Certification and Licensure Prep. He remained committed to his professional growth and development by taking continuing education classes where he received various awards to enhance his career. He passed the DHMH, Maryland State Law Test by the Board of Professional Counselors and Therapist. He also received a Certificate of Completion in Maryland’s Public Health Crisis Program and a Participation Award from the Maryland Behavioral Health Administration. Ricky worked for Forward Vision Inc. as a Community Living Assistant and then began a career with the Health Care for the Homeless, Inc. from 1999 until he retired. During his tenure, he received the “Beyond the Call of Duty” award for going above and beyond to make significant and unusual contributions. He would often engage with the Agency’s most challenging clients while de-escalating situations before they became explosive. He was appreciated by staff and clients and his co-workers praised his positive and pleasant demeanor. Ricky overcame many obstacles and utilized his life experiences and knowledge to help others. He believed many could benefit from what he learned and that fueled his desire to make life better for those who were in need. He was very dedicated to his work at Healthcare for the Homeless, Inc. and his co-workers stated, “Ricky will never be forgotten and will be truly missed!” He treasured his one true love and only son, Donovan. Donovan gave Ricky the gift that keeps on giving in the form of a beautiful granddaughter, Dionna, Ricky’s only grandchild whom he adored and cherished. He was a very proud Dad and Grandpop. Ricky has a huge family and he loved each and every member of the clan. He took pleasure and interest in knowing what was happening in the lives of his nieces and nephews and their children. As their uncle and friend, he was clever, very funny and enjoyed having them around. They all knew how much he loved them and they loved him immeasurably in return. Ricky shared a very special relationship with his boo Jacqueline Harris until her passing several years ago. Now, our big brother, father, uncle, grandpop, nephew, cousin and friend can finally rest easy. We’re sure he’s watching over us with our parents and grandparents who have gone before him. RIP Ricky, WE LOVE YOU! Ricky leaves to mourn: His son Donovan Frederic McKelvin-Thaxton; Granddaughter: Dionna Thaxton; Sisters: Joyce Logan, Joan Hairston, June Holmes, Judy Johnson, Jackie Thaxton and Janet Thaxton; Brothers-in-law: Kevin Johnson and Mike Hairston; Nieces and Nephews: Michael Logan, Jessica Almond, Michael Almond Sr (nephew-in-law), Hillary Winkler, Jamal Winkler (nephew-in-law), Jasmine Hemphill, Kevin Johnson Jr, Alphonso Johnson Jr, Justin Hemphill Sr, Jordan Hemphill, Dean Holmes and Ruby Hairston; Great Nieces and Nephews: Michael Almond (Cam), Madisyn Almond, Masyn Almond, Kynleigh Nelson, Cameron Johnson, Otto Johnson, Phoenix Johnson, Ava Johnson, Justin Hemphill Jr and Ace Johnson; Uncles: Dunbar Distance, Reginald Distance, Norman Distance (Butchie), Aunt: Doris Wilson (Aunt Sissy); Special Cousins: Janice Brown and Doris Minor-Terrell; Friends: Darrell Bevins, Marvin Montague Sr and a host of cousins and friends.

Tributes

Frederic A. Thaxton Jr

May 8, 1951 - June 25, 2022