Richard Dale Queen

Richard (Ricky) Dale Queen (68) of the Caney Fork Community passed away on July 16,2024 after a long illness. He was born September 22, 1955, to Hayes and Lila Jo Queen of Sylva, NC. He leaves behind his wife, Debbie Woodard, son Isaac Queen (Shannon), granddaughter Ava Queen, mother Lila Jo Queen, sister, Katrina Frizzell (Ron), and brother Bill Queen (Julie) along with several nieces, nephews, uncles, aunts, cousins, Weston Arrwood and Jedediah Bryson who called him “Da”. He is preceded in death by his father Hayes Queen and son, Ryan Queen.

Having been a lifelong resident of Jackson County, NC, Ricky loved the mountains and all nature. He especially loved Caney Fork where he built his home and lived most of his life. He graduated from Sylva - Webster High School in 1973 and went on to graduate from Western Carolina University and Haywood Tech. He owned a landscape company for many years prior to accepting a position with North Carolina DOT, where he worked until retiring. He was instrumental in developing and implementing the roadside wildflower program in Western North Carolina. His love for natural beauty can be seen in the plants growing along the highways and rest areas of North Carolina.

The mountains were Ricky’s happy place. From watching sunrises and sunsets somewhere on the parkway to knowing the names of every peak in the area, he was a mountain man. His great love for nature, especially plants, can be seen around his home, as well as his family and friends' homes. These flowers will serve as a constant reminder of his love for them and the native plants he gave so often. Ricky, also, enjoyed bluegrass music, especially MerleFest, along with exploring many hiking trails and waterfalls. He had a playful nature and loved his family and friends. Ricky lived life to the fullest and was truly a free spirit.

There will be a Celebration of Ricky's Life at 11:30AM Saturday, July 27, 2024, at the covered gazebo at Cullowhee Recreational Park. Come join the family as we share all the memories of Ricky.