Franklin - Richard E. "Ricky" Darden, 66, passed away at home on February 4, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.  A lifelong resident of Franklin and Southampton County, Virginia, Ricky graduated from Franklin High School before earning his Forestry degree from Virginia Tech, where he became a loyal Hokie fan. He dedicated many years to running the family farm before transitioning to a career at Union Camp Corporation. He later worked at Murphy Brown and The Virginia Department of Corrections.

Ricky Darden was the epitome of "country strong". He loved the outdoors and knew how to get the most from the land, be it farming, hunting or fishing. He was highly respected for his exceptional hunting skills and the walls of his home were lined with trophy mounts to prove it. He shared this love with his brother and best friend, Hunter. Ricky was a proud member of Forks of the River Hunt Club, Bronco Rod and Gun Club, and Black Creek Hunt Club.

Ricky had many friends in life, a testament to his friendly southern manner. He was a key figure in the lives of his two step-daughters, Missi and Kate and was a big part of the Harver family, having a special bond with his father-in-law, Marvin.

Left to cherish Ricky's memory are his lovingly devoted wife and "sweetie", Cindy; stepdaughters, Missi Hatfield (Rickey) and Kate Couch (Matt); and his treasured grandchildren, Kara Hatfield, Gage Hatfield, and Evie Couch. He is also survived by his brother, Hunter Darden III (Elizabeth); his sister, Sharon Kasper; nieces and nephews, Hunt Darden (Christii), Daryl Kasper (Lindsay), and Kelle Moore; his extended family, who considered him one of their own, Keith Harver (Teresa), Duane Harver (Debbie), and Scott Harver (Debbie). Ricky was predeceased by his parents, Hunter Jr. and Jean Darden, and his sister-in-law, Kathy Darden.

Ricky was a member of Sycamore Baptist Church. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Sycamore Baptist Church, 31120 Sycamore Church Rd., Franklin VA or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105. Ricky will long be remembered for his love of family, dedication to his work, and passion for the outdoors. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, February 8, 2025 at 1:30 PM, followed by a funeral service directed by the Reverend Tracey Pugh at 2:30 at Wright Funeral Home, 206 W. Fourth Ave., Franklin. Burial at Rosemont Cemetery, Sedley, VA immediately following the funeral.

www.wrightfuneralhome.org