Obituary of Charles J. Ricci

On July 8, 2024, Charles J. Ricci, 59, passed away peacefully with his loving family by his side. Charles was born and raised in Voorheesville, NY and despite being profoundly hearing impaired he was fiercely determined to become an active participant in mainstream activities. 

As an adolescent, Charlie hit the books hard and the playing field even harder. It did not take long for him to become among the most popular individuals in the classroom, on the field and at all the parties. He simply added richness to every activity.

His teachers, coaches and colleagues all went above and beyond for him and always encouraged him to excel. Charlie attended and graduated from Colonie High School and participated in varsity athletics at Voorheesville High School. After high school, he continued his studies at Gallaudet University in Washington, D.C.  His family is very grateful to all of the wonderful people that included Charlie into their communities. 

Charlie’s work ethic also served him well in his professional career. For over 30 years, Charlie managed the mailroom of highly regarded insurance agencies Rose and Kiernan and NFP in Albany, New York. Once again, he found his niche and quickly became a valued member of his work family. 

Charlie’s love for sports started at an early age. His love for the NY Yankees was initially fostered by his beloved father, Michael using American Sign Language to provide him play by play off of games on the radio. Additionally, he was an avid LA Rams fan. 

Charles was extremely generous with this time and resources. He understood the value of friendship and had an extra soft heart for all sorts of animals, especially his childhood dog, Shadow. 

Son of the late Michael and Jean Ricci of Voorheesville, NY. To his family he will always be lovingly remembered as brother to to Kevin Garrity (Mary) of Voorheesville, NY, Michael Ricci (Bessy) of Greenwich CT., Christina Decker (Dean) of Voorheesville and Uncle to Patrick and Caitlin (Michael), Michelee, George, Konstantinos and Michael.

The family would like to express special gratitude to his lifelong friends, Pearl Emma and Jennifer Randio, whom he loved dearly.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the New Scotland Food Pantry, St. Matthew’s Church 25 Mountain View Street, Voorheesville, NY 12186.

Calling hours will be held at St. Matthews Church, 25 Mountainview St.,  Voorheesville on Saturday, July13th from 9 AM to 10 AM.   A mass will immediately follow at 10:00 and burial will be in the New Scotland Presbyterian Church Cemetery at 2010 New Scotland Road, Slingerlands, NY.