Ricky Joe Neptune, of Madisonville, KY, formerly of Bremen, KY, was born on April 21, 1961, to the late Freda Mae Stewart (née Bruce) and Franklin Delbert Neptune.

After a quick but courageous battle with cancer beginning in August 2025, Ricky passed away peacefully on April 16th, 2026, surrounded by his family.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his sister, Frankie Mae Neptune Williamson.

He is survived by his siblings, Randy Ray Neptune and Veronica Dawn Neptune; and was the proud father of four children; Riki Beth Wingfield, Samantha Joe Neptune, and twins, Hannah Leigh Shelden and Hailey Dee Kromer; he also held a special place in his heart for his former stepdaughters, Jennifer Renee Watkins and Brandy Michelle Fletcher; and was a proud grandfather to, Kaitlyn Piper, Taylor Gunn, and Karson & Dustin Lynch, children of Riki Beth; Anna Jenkins and Dallas Case, children of Samantha; Mallory & Delilah Shelden, children of Hannah; Brooks & Brody Kromer, along with bonus daughters Audrey & Kyleigh Kromer, children of Hailey; Lexie Watkins and bonus daughter Chealsea Watkins, children of Jennifer; and Allee Burke, Myles Aune, and Ethan Cobb, along with bonus children Tristan, Ryleigh, & Luke Winters, children of Brandy; several nieces, nephews, great-grandchildren, and many friends.

Ricky shared a special lifelong friendship with his former wife, Cathy, who remained a loyal and caring friend even after their marriage ended.

He also shared a loving relationship with his companion, Robin Poe. She describes Ricky as a great man who never met a stranger and was good to everyone, even those who may have wronged him.

Ricky never had sons, but he loved his sons-in-law like they were his own. He shared a special bond with Timothy Shelden, Cody Kromer, Johnny Watkins, & Phillip Winters, each of whom he cared for deeply, shown through playful banter and funny jokes.

Ricky loved his children and took great pride in his family. He had a lifelong passion for motorcycles and was a devout patriot who loved America. As a young man, he loved playing basketball and carried that passion with him throughout his life. His favorite player was Larry Bird and later in life, he became a big fan of Caitlin Clark. He passed his love of the game down to many of his children and grandchildren.

A man of many talents, Ricky built a career as a self-employed carpenter and worked across many areas of the construction trades. He enjoyed working with his hands and took pride in the things he built. Known for his organization and craftsmanship, Ricky kept a meticulously organized tool shed, a reflection of the pride he took in his work. He loved tending his garden and, later in life after moving to the city, caring for his flowers.

A celebration of life will be scheduled at a later date. Harris Funeral Home in Madisonville was entrusted with care. His memorial stone will be placed at Mt. Pisgah Cemetery in Muhlenberg County, KY beside his family members, including his mother, father, and sister.

He was deeply loved and will be deeply missed. His family finds comfort in knowing the love he gave will live on through them. We are proud to call him Dad and Papaw and will carry him with us always.