Ricky Dale Wise

Ricky Dale Wise, 66, of Lynchburg, Virginia passed away peacefully on his birthday December 23, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Ricky was the son of the late Clyde Colson Wise and Alsie Hartless. In addition to his parents, he was proceeded in death by a sibling, June Martin, a brother-in-law, Gene P. Ayers, and a granddaughter Destiny Amor Hamilton.

He was retired from his tree service business and had a green thumb in gardening. His vegetable garden was the best around. He enjoyed raising chickens and enjoyed being outdoors where he loved fishing.

Above all, Ricky loved his family. He is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Janet Walton Wise of 17 years; his two sons, Geoffrey Wise (Vidya) and Heath Wise (Hannah); stepchildren, Jason Hamilton and Sherry Mann; and four grandchildren, Jason Hamilton, Jr., Aliyah Hamilton, Brooke Hamilton, and Avery Reynolds.

He is also survived by his siblings, Wanda Ayers, Clyde Wise, Jr. (Betty), Susan Coffey (Steve), and Rebecca Phelps (Charles); his best friend, Steve Middleton; and his cat Tiger.

The family wishes to thank Centra Hospice, especially Kasie Cash, Tara Clark, David Helfrich, Dr. Linda Beahm and Dr. Lisa Larkin.

A service celebrating Ricky’s life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, at Tharp Funeral Home, Lynchburg, with Pastor Joshua Wise officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. Interment will follow the service at Fort Hill Memorial Park.

Those wishing to honor Ricky’s memory are asked to consider donating to The American Cancer Society (www.cancer.org)

Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Lynchburg is assisting the family.