Ricky Leon Maples, Jr., 34, of Panama City, entered the sunset of life on Tuesday, September 1, 2020 at Gulf Coast Regional Medical Center, Panama City.  A native of Palatka, he was the son of Ricky Leon, Sr. and Karen Denise (Norwood) Maples, born on Tuesday, August 5, 1986.  Ricky was educated in the Putnam County and Bay County, FL School Districts, respectively.  During his youthful years, he was a member of Calvary Missionary Baptist Church, Palatka.  Ricky later moved to Panama City, where he graduated from Rutherford High School. Upon graduation, he found his passion for taking care of others and proceeded to earn certification in nursing assistance in 2006. After obtaining his Certified Nursing Assistant credentials, Ricky truly discovered his career of choice and passion.  His career flourished at Clifford Sims State Veterans Nursing Home and the Panama City Nursing Center for more than 10 years at both locations.  Ricky was a beloved co-worker, dedicated associate and the smiling face that every patient loved to see each morning.  Ricky brought joy to everyone that he met, and never seemed to meet a stranger with his gregarious personality. Ricky truly enjoyed his family and enjoyed spending time with his friends.  On his off days, you could catch Ricky swimming, cooking up a good meal or going in to work to assist his patients. Ricky loved and cared for everyone, as though they were family.

He was preceded in eternal rest by his grandparents, Deacon James and Deaconess Bertha Norwood;  Rev. Otis J. and Mary Hill; Roland and Lillie Mae Manning ; great uncles, Curley, Edward and Harvey Ford; uncles, Jimmie C. Williams, Sr.; great aunts , Rose L. Jenkins, Emma Dixon; aunts, Palmas "Pam" Montgomery.

Ricky peacefully entered his sunset at 8:42 a.m. on Tuesday September 1, 2020. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him.

Ricky leaves to cherish his memories: mother , Karen Denise Norwood Maples, East Palatka; father , Ricky Maples, Sr., Panama City; sisters , Katrice Maples, Rekita Maples, both of Atlanta, GA; La'Quasha McFadden, East Palatka; brother , Rimadi Levontae Maples, East Palatka; niece , Brooklyn Maples, East Palatka; god-daughter , Makayla Carson; " like a daughter," Kayla Nieves; god-parents ,  Ricky & Melissa Wright, loving aunts and uncles, tender nieces and nephews, devoted cousins, and a host of friends and co-workers.

In compliance with CDC COVID-19 guidelines (including required masks) a socially-distanced visitation of family and friends will be 5-7p.m., Friday, September 11 at "Flagg's Chapel of Serenity." Celebration of Life will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, September 12 at Putnam County Fairgrounds, 118 Fairgrounds Rd., East Palatka, FL.  Elder Dora Watts, of Grace & Truth Deliverance Ministries, is the eulogist. Interment will be in Oak Hill West Cemetery.