Ricky A. McGhee

Ricky Allan McGhee passed away at home on September 7, 2022, after a five-year battle with glioblastoma. Born October 11, 1952, to parents Collins and Anita (Aroh) McGhee, he was the second eldest of nine children. He married his wife Stephanie (Badore) in 1973, and they were together until his passing. Ricky and Stephanie were blessed with two children, their son Joseph and daughter Sara. Ricky was also honored to act as a father figure to his youngest sister, Julann (McGhee) Peters.

Ricky was a friend to many, a beloved brother to his eight siblings and seven siblings in-law, as well as the always proud “Crazy Uncle Rick” to his many nieces and nephews.  A dedicated father to Joseph, Sara, and Julann, he was also a wonderful father-in-law to their spouses Sarah (Follin) McGhee (Joseph), Brian Simons (Sara), and John Peters (Julann). Ricky was also an incredibly adored “Poppy/Papa” to his five grandchildren: Braeden and Reese Peters (Julann and John), Anderson and Benjamin Simons (Sara and Brian), and Finnegan McGhee (Joseph and Sarah). Some of his greatest joy and happiness came in being a grandfather.

Always happy to share his skills and knowledge, Ricky lived a life where he was always willing to help and eager to get involved.  Upon learning of his diagnosis, he made the decision that he wished to donate his body to science. Throughout his courageous fight he was adamant that he wanted something positive to come out of his battle with brain cancer. We are so proud of him that he was able to do so and that his body will be used by future doctors to study and learn. We are so grateful to Albany Medical College in accepting his donation and helping to make his wish a reality.  We can only hope that his passing and the study of his body may hold a key to someday beating this vicious disease.

In lieu of flowers, Ricky asked that everyone please do an anonymous random act of kindness in his honor, and to also support your local mental health organizations.

A Celebration of Life will be held October 29, 2022, at 1pm at the Lion’s Club Pavilion in Pine Plains, NY.

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