With heavy hearts, we share the unexpected passing of Ricky Alan Coffey, 61, of Hickory, who passed away on Thursday, October 16, 2025, at his residence. Born on July 31, 1964, in Catawba County, Ricky was the beloved son of the late Cecil Burl and Betty Yoder Coffey.
Ricky dedicated more than three decades of his life to public service, proudly retiring as Police Chief for the Longview Police Department after 30 years of devoted leadership and commitment to his community. Following his retirement, he continued to work part-time for Nissan and NAPA Auto Parts as a delivery driver, where he was known for his friendliness, reliability, and strong work ethic.
A man of faith and compassion, Ricky was a devoted member of Zion Lutheran Church, where he found peace, fellowship, and purpose. He was known for his humor, kindness, and unwavering loyalty to those he cared about.
Ricky is survived by his loving fiancée, Penny Coffey; his best friend, like a brother, Larry Barger, and his wife, Michelle; his Aunt Rosie Yoder; and his cherished fur companions, Waylon, Leo, and Thelma.
Family and friends are invited to gather on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, from 1:45 p.m. to 2:45 p.m. at Zion Lutheran Church, followed by a Funeral Service at 3:00 p.m. with Reverend David Drysdale officiating. Burial will take place in the church cemetery. Pallbearers will include retired police officers who proudly served alongside Ricky, with honorary pallbearers being his closest friends.
Ricky will be remembered for his lifelong dedication to service, his love for family and friends, and the kindness he showed to everyone he met. His legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched and the community he served so faithfully.
