Melissa Rickard

Melissa Rickard, age 83, of Du Quoin, passed away peacefully at 1:02am on Monday, June 23, 2025 at Du Quoin Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.

She was born Friday, January 30, 1942 in Wichita, Kansas, a daughter of Jack and Opal (Underwood) White. She married the love of her life, John Rickard, Sr. He preceded her in death.

Melissa was a passionate lover of the arts, left an indelible mark on the Northern California community through her tireless dedication to bringing art and culture to the region. As the operator of McCloud Dance Country, she created a haven for creatives to express themselves, and her love for dance, music, and art was contagious. At the heart of Melissa's life were her loved ones, particularly her husband and soulmate, John, and their two sons, who brought her immense joy and fulfillment. Her family was her rock, and she cherished every moment spent with them. Melissa's own creative expression found solace in painting, a passion that allowed her to explore her imagination and bring beauty to the world. Her Northern California home, surrounded by the natural beauty of the region, was a constant source of inspiration for her art and her life. Through her work at McCloud Dance Country, Melissa made it her life's mission to share the richness of art and culture with her community. Her legacy will live on through the countless lives she touched, the art she created, and the memories she helped forge. 

She is survived by her son- John (Elizabeth) Rickard, Jr. of Anna; son- Kenneth Rickard of Cottonwood, California; grandchildren- John Rickard III of McCloud, California, Joseph Rickard of Las Vegas, Nevada, Chelsee Lucero of Cottonwood, California, Zoe Rickard of Anna, Jadyn Rickard of Folsom, California, Alex Scuderi of Anna, Charlotte Rickard of Anna, Tyson Rickard of Anna, and Kash Rickard of Anna; and twin brother- Malcom White of Maxwell, California. 

She is preceded in death by her beloved husband, her parents, and her daughter-in-law- Wendie Rickard.
 
In accordance with Melissa's wishes, cremation rites will be accorded. Maxton-Rosado Funeral Home in Du Quoin is honored to serve the family. To leave an online condolence, please visit www.maxtonrosado.com or call 618-542-2020 for more information. 

Melissa will be deeply missed by all who knew her, but her impact on the Northern California arts scene as well as her family, will continue to inspire and uplift generations to come. 

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