Rickey Lee Early, 66, of Elliston, Virginia, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, on November 24, 2025, at Lewis Gale Medical Center in Salem, Virginia. He was born in Montgomery County, Virginia, on April 8, 1959, to the late Stanley Roscoe Early and Helen Juanita Early. He was married to Joyce Price Early, who survives.

Rickey was preceded in death by his parents, Juanita and Stanley Early; brothers, Larry Early, Gary Early, and Steven Early; uncle, Wayne Dallas; mother-in-law, Georgia Robinette; sister in law, Donna "Lulu" Price; and bonus son, Jonny Dooley.

Rickey, also known as "Hog Head," was a lifelong resident of Ironto, Virginia, known for his dependability, loving nature, and support. He was a skilled craftsman, a master of many crafts, with an uncanny ability to build and repair anything. He was the proud owner and operator of "Poor Boyz Carpet Service" for 34 years. A man of simple pleasures, he devoted time to an occasional ride on horse and buggy, farming, and gardening, a pastime he especially enjoyed sharing with his grandchildren.

Rickey, above all, was a devoted family man, finding his greatest joy in the company of his wife, children, and grandchildren. His children and grandchildren were his proudest accomplishment. His grandchildren fondly called him "Papaw." He was the beloved patriarch of his family, leading with love, integrity, and a gentle strength.

Those left to cherish her memory are his loving and devoted wife of 43 years, Joyce Early; sons, Brian Early and daughter in law, Cassidy Early and Roger Beryl Early and his girlfriend, Kinsey Phillips; daughter, Nikki Garland and son in law, Charlie Garland; sister, Peggy Anderson; uncle, Roger Dallas; grandchildren, Caitlyn, Jordan, Ryley, Nate, Desi Garland; and special friends, Stephen Carlton Huff, Jr., Chris Tatum and Mike Eastridge.

The family will have a private Celebration of Life Service at a later date.