Ricky Gearin (AKA Speedy), age 50, of Newbern, Tennessee, passed away on September 18, 2026 at his residence surrounded by his family. He was a deeply loved husband, father, Papa, son, brother, uncle, and friend whose presence will be missed more than words can express.
Ricky was born on September 8, 1976 in Martin TN, Ricky was the kind of man who always liked to stay busy. He loved fixing things, working with his hands, and figuring out how to make something work. If something was broken, Ricky was usually the one you wanted around. He also loved to wheel and deal and was always ready to buy, sell, trade, or make a good deal. Those who knew him will remember his strong personality, his independence, and the way he could always find something to work on.
More than anything, Ricky loved his family. Spending time with the people he loved meant the world to him, and being “Papa” was one of the greatest joys of his life. He loved his grandchildren dearly and treasured every moment he had with them. His family also finds comfort in knowing that his granddaughter on the way, Annaleigh Jean Gearin, will grow up hearing stories about her Papa and knowing how deeply she was already loved.
Ricky was married to his loving wife, Audrey, and together they shared a family that meant everything to him.
He leaves behind his Grandmother Betty Gearin of Greenfield, His father David Eugene Gearin of Greenfield; his brother, Lee Mills (Teresa) of Dresden; and his six children, Katelyn Gearin of Newbern; Kristen Bryant (Kyle) of Horn Lake, Mississippi; Billy Gearin (Kayla) of Newbern; Bobby Gearin of Greenfield; Alyvia Gearin of Grand Rivers, Kentucky; and Amy Walls (Jacob) of Newbern.
He also leaves behind his grandchildren, Cooper Belton, Conner Belton, Paisley Belton, and Jayce Gearin, as well as his granddaughter on the way, Annaleigh Jean Gearin. Ricky shared a special love for his Uncle Larry Mills (Dawn) of Dresden and also leaves behind nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly, along with many other family members and friends who will carry his memory with them.
Ricky was preceded in death by his mother, Brenda Louise Mills of Martin, and his grandfather, Billy Gene Gearin, Sr.
Ricky was one of a kind. He was hardworking, headstrong, independent, and always himself. Whether he was fixing something, working on a project, making a deal, spending time with his family, or simply being Papa, he left an impression that will never be forgotten.
His family will miss his presence, his personality, his stories, and all the little things that made Ricky who he was. There will always be an empty place where he once stood, but there will also be countless memories, stories, and pieces of him that will live on through the family he loved so much.
Ricky was deeply loved in this life, and he will be deeply missed every day.
His memorial service will be held on October 3rd at 2pm at Apostolic Faith (526 Highway 45 North, Bradford, TN 38316) with David Spikes and Steve Gearin officiating.