Obituary of Tommy Lee Rickman

Tommy Lee Rickman, 74, of Bryson City NC. passed away peacefully at his home March 16, 2024. He was born November 09, 1949, to the late David Lee Rickman and Fearlee Ledford Rickman. He was very outdoorsy and had a huge interest in nature. He retired from the National Park Service where he worked in maintenance. He loved his family, and his grandchildren were the apples of his eyes. He was always willing to lend a hand and help others when needed. Tommy proudly served his country, in the Vietnam War; in the Army where he earned: Vietnam Service Medal with 2 Bronze Service Stars; National Defense Service Medal; Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal; Combat Infantryman Badge; Sharpshooter (Rifle); Army Commendation Medal; Air Medal w/3 Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters. In addition to his father, he is preceded in death by a son Thomas Ronson Rickman. He is survived by his children Patrick Rickman of Cherokee NC, Glenn Rickman of Missouri, Gene Rickman of Pennsylvania, Tommy Lee Rickman Jr of Cherokee, and Kelly Stanberry (Brian) of Bryson City NC; A brother Charlie Rickman of Cherokee, a sister Beth Rickman Winchester of Bryson City; 19 grandchildren: Samantha, Darion, Haleigh, Peyton, Kainon, Emma, Logan, Maddie, Mason, Kayla, Ava, Xander, Taylor, Alexis, Carter, Meleah, Daelynn, Brooklyn, Sylas, Piper, and Paislee; 8 great-grandchildren; a host of nieces and nephews; and a special family member Glenda Junaluska. A private family Celebration of Life is planned for a later date.