Ricky Eugene Hudgens

Ricky Eugene Hudgens, 63, of Harrisburg, passed away peacefully with his beloved wife by his side on Tuesday, June 23, 2026. It is comforting to imagine that, as he was welcomed home, "Jesus got another carpenter to help build Heaven."

Ricky was born April 28, 1963 In Cabarrus County to the late Billy Eugene Hudgens and the late Lila Rice Hudgens.

Ricky met the love of his life while playing pool in Charlotte, arriving in his treasured 1963 Ford Galaxy Daytona Edition. Their love story only grew stronger through the years, and after 23 years of marriage, they joyfully renewed their wedding vows as a testament to their enduring commitment to one another.

Above all else, Ricky dearly loved his family. His greatest joy came from spending time with his children and grandchildren, who were the pride of his life. The memories they shared, the lessons he taught, and the laughter he brought into their lives will remain treasured for generations.

Ricky was a master carpenter with an extraordinary talent for building and repairing just about anything. A skilled craftsman and a true jack-of-all-trades, he believed almost nothing was beyond saving. One man's junk was Ricky's treasure. He had an uncanny ability to see potential where others saw scrap.

Ricky was known for his headstrong, determined spirit and strong will. He was a gifted storyteller whose stories, jokes, and playful antics could fill a room with laughter. A natural jokester and goofball, he rarely missed an opportunity to make someone smile. One of his favorite sayings was, "I'll dance at your wedding."

Ricky had a deep appreciation for the simple things in life. He was especially proud of his beloved 1986 green GMC pickup truck, where a medicine bottle filled with salt always had a permanent place on the dashboard.

Survivors include his beloved wife of 43 years, Amy Hudgens of Harrisburg; three children, all of Harrisburg, daughter, Kristi Goins; son, Ricky (Coriann) Hudgens II; son, Dillon (Merissa) Hudgens; four grandchildren, Lila, Emily, and Elizabeth Goins, and Oliver Hudgens; great-grandson, Asher White; brothers, Garland T. Hudgens and Michael Hudgens, both of Harrisburg, NC; and several other extended family and friends.

Ricky's Celebration of Life will be held at 3:00 pm on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, at Hartsell Funeral Home's Chapel in Harrisburg, NC.

Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital  or Shriners Children's.

Hartsell Funeral Home of Harrisburg is serving the Hudgens family.