Ricky D. Gilchrist II

Ricky Dean Gilchrist II, 52, of Princeton, NJ, passed away at his residence in Somerset, NJ on Friday, August 8, 2025.

Born in Princeton, NJ on July 30, 1973, Ricky's presence could turn strangers into friends in a matter of minutes. Whether you knew him for years or met him just once, chances are you walked away smiling - Ricky had that kind of presence.

A true outdoorsman, he was an avid hunter and fisherman. He would find peace walking in the woods or sitting in his tree stand hunting deer, boar, and turkey with a rifle or bow. Fishing was more than a hobby for Ricky; it was a way of life. He fished as often as possible, whether in saltwater or freshwater. He was also a proud firearms enthusiast, continually expanding his knowledge and collection.

In his younger years, Ricky was a talented break dancer, with an unmatched sense of rhythm, and his love for music - especially reggae - remained constant throughout his life. He could turn any day into a celebration, often sharing long conversations and laughs with friends and family, especially his best friend Skip, with whom he spoke daily about fishing, firearms, and their next trip on the water.

Ricky attended Franklin High School and graduated from South Brunswick High School in 1992. For over 20 years, he was a dedicated member of the parts department at Honda of Princeton, where he was respected by coworkers and customers alike for his exceptional work ethic and unwavering loyalty.

Family was everything to Ricky. He shared a special bond with his cousin Michelle, always looking out for her as if she were his little sister. His presence was constant at family events, especially those hosted by his beloved Aunt Jo Ellen, where he never missed a plate and never missed a chance to rave about her cooking.

He was preceded in death by his father, Ronald Sheran Gilchrist; his mother, Charla Greene-Gilchrist; maternal grandparents, Charles J. Greene and Olga Greene; and paternal grandparents, Bethel Gilchrist and Tena Gilchrist, sister Sheronda Williams, nephew Christian Williams.

He leaves to cherish his memory: brother Raheem Gilchrist (Stephanie) of Middlesex, NJ, sister Shavonne Gilchrist of Bound Brook, NJ, brother Calvin Wade of Pittsburgh, PA; sister Crissandra Wade of North Carolina; his aunt Jo Ellen Greene-Jefferson (Brian) of Princeton, NJ; uncle Gordon Smith of Leland, NC; cousins Michelle Gilchrist of Somerset, NJ, Robert C. G. Jefferson (Jessica) Princeton, NJ, and Silas Massey of Princeton, NJ; godmother Racquel Craig-Brew- er of Princeton, NJ; eight nieces; nine nephews; and close friends who were like brothers - Skip, Butter, Chad, and Ralph- along with a host of loving family and friends.

Funeral service will be 11am Saturday, August 23, 2025 at Hughes Funeral Home, 324 Bellevue Ave., Trenton, NJ 08618. Calling hour will be 10am until the time of service. Interment will be private.

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