Linda Smith Ricks

Linda Smith Ricks, 75, of Lubbock, passed from this life into the arms of her Lord and Savior on December 6, 2025, after a battle with cancer. She was born February 11, 1950, in Lubbock, Texas, to L.H. and Rayma Smith.

Linda was educated in the Lubbock Public Schools and graduated Monterrey High School in 1968. It was there she met Ron Stricklin. They later married and lived in Okinawa, Japan, Honolulu, Hawaii, and Shreveport, Louisiana during Ron’s service in the U.S. Air Force. Their two children, Jennifer and Ronald, were born during this time.

Upon returning to Lubbock, Linda began her long career at Texas Tech University Information Systems initially changing data tapes while taking classes toward her degree. Through dedication and hard work, she earned a degree in Home Economics and advanced through the department, ultimately retiring in January 2016 as Managing Director after 40 years of devoted service.

Linda was a faithful caregiver—both to her loved ones and to anyone the Lord placed in her path. She and her husband, Charlie, cherished the friendships they made through the Lubbock Mustang Club. As an active member of Indiana Avenue Baptist Church, Linda joyfully organized widows’ luncheons and meals for the sick and bereaved within her beloved Hendricks Sunday School Class.

In retirement, Linda embraced an active lifestyle. She was committed to regular exercise and discovered a love for dancing. Through the Lubbock dance community she formed many cherished friendships, and one of those friends, John Dunnam, became her dance partner and remained a special part of her life.

Linda was preceded in death by her parents L.H. and Rayma Smith of Lubbock, and her husband, Charles Ricks.

She is survived by her sister Debbie (Dave) Barden of Seattle, WA; her daughter, Jennifer (Richard) Busick of Dallas; son, Ron Stricklin, of Houston; granddaughter, Kennedy (Alex) Warren of San Antonio; grandson, Jackson Busick of Dallas; and many other beloved family members and friends.

A Memorial Service will be held on December 19, 2025, at 10:00 AM at Indiana Avenue Baptist Church, 9507 Indiana Ave., Lubbock, Texas. A private burial will take place at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial gifts be made to Indiana Avenue Baptist Church, 9507 Indiana Ave., Lubbock, TX 79423.