Rickey Gene Maggard, beloved husband of Sharon and lifelong resident of Prague, passed from this life on July 14, 2026 in Shawnee, Oklahoma, at the age of 73.

Rick was born on June 24, 1953, in Prague, Oklahoma, to Lewis Earl and Caralee (Gregory) Maggard. He grew up in Prague and was a proud 1971 graduate of Prague High School, where he excelled as a student-athlete, playing both football and basketball. On February 14, 1973, he married the love of his life, Sharon Lynn Pratka. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, friendship, and community, making their home in Prague where they lovingly raised their two children, Kelly and Michelle.

Rick dedicated more than four decades to the automotive service industry, earning a reputation for honesty, integrity, and exceptional customer care. He began his career in 1974 in the Parts Department at Prague Motor Sales, where he remained until the dealership closed in 1985. He then continued his career with Shawnee Lincoln Mercury, eventually becoming Service Department Manager. Around 1993, Rick accepted the position of Service Manager at Seminole Ford, where he faithfully served until his retirement in December of 2018.

A Ford Master Certified Mechanic—the highest certification awarded by Ford—Rick was widely respected throughout the industry. Rick was awarded numerous customer satisfaction awards through Ford. He built a loyal following of customers who trusted him completely because they knew he would always go above and beyond to help them. Whether assisting a lifelong customer or mentoring a young mechanic just beginning their career, Rick treated everyone like family. His leadership, patience, and willingness to share his knowledge left a lasting impression on countless people whose lives and careers were made better because of him.

Outside of work, Rick embraced life with enthusiasm. He enjoyed fishing, metal detecting, and coin collecting, always appreciating the excitement of discovering something new. He took tremendous pride in maintaining one of Prague's most recognizable homes, decorating elaborately for both Halloween and Christmas each year. His beautifully manicured lawn frequently earned recognition as the Prague Chamber of Commerce Yard of the Month, a testament to the care and pride he invested in his home.

Rick was also a devoted University of Oklahoma Sooners fan. Whether football, basketball, women’s gymnastics, or any other OU sport, he rarely missed an opportunity to cheer on the Crimson and Cream. He and Sharon loved opening their home to family and friends for OU football watch parties, where Rick became the grill master, making sure no one left hungry while everyone enjoyed great food, great company, and plenty of spirited conversation. His gameday grilling was only topped by his huge selections of barbecue for the 4th of July and the Kolache Festival.

Anyone who knew Rick also knew his quick wit and unmistakable sarcastic sense of humor. Sarcasm was, without question, his love language. His playful jokes, clever one-liners, and good-natured teasing brought laughter to family gatherings, workplaces, and friendships throughout the years. Behind that humor was a man with a generous heart who loved deeply and cared sincerely for those around him.

Rick was preceded in death by his parents, Lewis Earl and Caralee Maggard; his beloved son, Kelly Gene Maggard; and his father-in-law, Henry Pratka.

He is survived by his loving wife of more than 53 years, Sharon Maggard, of the home; his daughter, Michelle Smith and husband, Jeaux, of Edmond; his cherished granddaughter, Marleigh Kay Smith, of Stillwater; his brother, Ron Maggard and wife, Marva of Edmond; his mother-in-law, Shirlene Pratka, of Prague; his sister-in-law, Debbie Lokey and husband, Doug, of Prague; his niece, April Albright and husband, Mike, of Greensboro, North Carolina; great-nephews, Brooks and Jack Albright; and a host of extended family members, dear friends, former coworkers, and the many loyal customers whose lives he touched throughout the years.