Riccardo Allen Newman Sr., affectionately known as “Big Rick,” was born in Cleveland, Ohio, to Juanita Whitehead (Newman) and Nolan Newman. He was the last surviving son of a large and incredible family, preceded in death by his siblings: Robert, Roberta, Nolan, Rodney, Roena, Reggie,  and Renea.

If you knew Riccardo, you knew he was a “manly man” — confident, bold, and full of charm — blessed with the special gift of gab. But behind that strong exterior was a soft heart, a kind soul, and a deep love for his family, friends, and anyone he came in contact with.

Imagine the coolest, smoothest, best-dressed man in the room — that was Riccardo. His presence radiated confidence. If you saw him, it was almost like he walked on clouds. He was truly larger than life.

Riccardo was the kind of man who didn’t let anything stand in his way. If he wanted something, he made it happen. There was never a mountain too tall or a river too wide to keep him from reaching his goals.

He often said:
“A man’s work is never done.”

Riccardo lived a life of purpose, perseverance, and compassion. He owned several businesses, including video stores in Tennessee and a landscaping business. He worked many jobs over the years, but he spent his final days doing something that fit him perfectly — driving BIG RIGS across the country. He loved being on the open road.

He also had a heart for helping others. Riccardo managed several sober living homes as part of his mission to support those in recovery, and he dreamed of opening his own recovery facility one day.

Outside of work, Riccardo enjoyed motorcycles, golf, being the life of the party, and — most of all — spending time with his family and friends. He deeply loved all of his brothers, sisters, nieces, nephews, and cousins. But his grandchildren were his pride and joy. Nothing meant more to him than being present in their lives.

“Grandpa was always there.”

Riccardo is lovingly survived by his three children — Riccardo, Jason, and Nicole — and his 14 beloved grandchildren, all of whom will carry his memory forward with pride and love. He is also remembered by Tamara Hicks, his former wife and the mother of his children, who stood by his side in his final days.

In his later years, Riccardo was on a personal spiritual journey, always seeking to grow closer to God and find peace in his faith. His legacy lives on through the love he gave, the lives he touched, and the strength he showed every step of the way.

“To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die.”