It is with deep sorrow and much love that we announce the passing of Jennifer Nell (Wise) Ricks, a cherished daughter, wife, mother, and friend, who passed away peacefully in Crestview, Florida, on May 10, 2025, at the age of 53.
Born in Enterprise, Alabama, and raised in Samson, Jennifer was a proud member of the Wise family, known for their enduring faith and commitment to community. She was the beloved daughter of the late Victor Noble Wise and is survived by her loving husband, Charles Ricks. Together, they shared a life grounded in faith, family, and service.
Jennifer dedicated herself to her home and her community. By trade she was a nail technician and Beauty Consultant with Merle Norman Cosmetics. She served ten years as children’s pastor with Abundant Life Church in Samson, Alabama, and she had a special gift for encouragement and made those around her feel valued and seen.
She is also survived by her mother Barbara A. (Bowers) Wise, her son Conner Ricks (Sara), daughter Meredith Davis (Wes), her granddaughter Farrah Davis (Wes and Meredith), her sisters Teresa Fink, Sherry Hicks, Maranda Clark, and Darlene Crum, and several nieces, nephews, and extended family members who will carry her memory in their hearts.
A celebration of Jennifer’s life will be held at Brackney Funeral Service Chapel on Thursday, May 15, 2025 beginning at 2:00 p.m, with Pastor Sherry Hicks officiating. The family will receive friends on Thursday, May 15, 2025 from 1:00 pm CST to 2:00 pm CST at the funeral home.
Jennifer’s light, compassion, and joy will continue to inspire all who knew her.
You can share memories and offer condolences at www.brackneyfuneralservice.com
Brackney Funeral Service, Crestview, is entrusted with arrangements.
Jeanne Fleuriet
May 12, 2025, 5:49 pm
So sorry to read about Jennifer. I will continue to pray for your hearts as you transition to life on this earth without her. Please give mom (Mrs. Barbara) the biggest hug from me♥️
Glen and Vickie Williamson
May 12, 2025, 6:13 pm
Such a hard loss but Heavens gain! We loved Charlie and Jennifer from the time we served with them in worship in the 90s. Humble, faithful and joyful armor bearers. Knowing this is a temporary home and our real journey is just ahead brings comfort and hope. May Jesus wrap you all up in His peace, strength and love in the days to come. We love you all!
Tammy Hendrix
May 12, 2025, 6:46 pm
My heart goes out to you all! I know everyone is devastated by the loss of Jennifer. She was such a beacon of joy and light.
Love and prayers,
Tammy Hendrix
Mary Nell McMillan
May 12, 2025, 7:11 pm
My condolences Charlie, Meredith, and Connor. Jennifer was a warrior and I loved her for her perseverance and her love for God. Take Your Rest my sister in Christ. Praying for the family, love y’all ❤️
Neica Jones
May 12, 2025, 7:22 pm
I will always remember her bright smile and beaming face. She lit up a room when she entered it and that personality only she can have.
My condolences go out to Charles,
And the family. My prayers are with you all and know your in my prayers.
Stacy Harris
May 12, 2025, 9:40 pm
Our deepest condolences to the entire family! Jennifer will be deeply missed by all who loved her and our prayers are with her husband, children, and extended family during this difficult time of loss.
Mayra Garcia
May 12, 2025, 10:21 pm
Tonight at times is hard to understand that God is in control, He is actually in control and I pray that Jennifer’s family may have peace like the one only God can give. She loved the beach! All I had to do in order to know if she was back at the dorm, was to feel the sand under my feet… it was so often that she could not wait to get out of classes and go there…
Tangie Durham
May 12, 2025, 10:33 pm
Jennifer was a kind soul who always saw the light in others. She could always find a way to make you laugh. There is no doubt she’s rejoicing in Heaven. I am so sorry for your loss. Thoughts and prayers are with you all!
Michelle Ward
May 12, 2025, 11:09 pm
You will forever be remembered for the kindness you showed to all!
Michelle Owens Ward
Class of 1990 Samson High School
Sherry Mock Rodgers
May 13, 2025, 12:06 am
I am so sorry for your loss. Jennifer didn’t have a mean bone in her body. She was always the sweetest. Growing up with her at Samson School was a treasure.
Always had a smile on her face no matter what was going on or how she felt . We will meet again!!
Mary Harrison and Robert Harrison
May 13, 2025, 12:14 am
Your love and kindness is your legacy! We pray for your family!
Diane Peters
May 13, 2025, 1:58 pm
Words cannot express the wonderful person of Jennifer. It is without a doubt that she is greatly missed. Papa God is enjoying her and laughing with her. Mo more pain for her.
Charla Whyle Tunu
May 13, 2025, 11:14 pm
I am so sorry to hear about Jennifer. This is heartbreaking. My thoughts, loves, and condolences are with you all!
Sheila Mock
May 14, 2025, 2:54 pm
I’m deeply sorry to hear about your loss. Jennifer fought bravely and leaves behind a legacy of love. My heart goes out to you all during this incredibly difficult time.
Sharon Chance
May 14, 2025, 4:32 pm
So sorry for your loss and keeping you all in our prayers. Heaven surely has gained an angel.
Jennifer was such an awesome woman of faith and her faith was contagious!! She was a joy to everyone that knew her.
Some many lives have been and still are being impacted and changed by her kind, loving and generous spirit and the testimony that she lived out loud.
Love and Prayers,
Duke & Sharon Chance
Marian Rutherford
May 15, 2025, 6:36 pm
I am so sorry for your loss. Jennifer was a beautiful woman of God. Praying peace, comfort, strength and courage for all the family as you move a day at the time forward with your lives honoring all that Jennifer was and still is in her new heavenly home.
God Bless each of you,
Marian Rutherford