“He loved deeply” — family and officers attend funeral of Trooper Dennis Ricks

COLUMBIA, SC (WOLO) — The life of State Trooper Dennis Ricks was honored Wednesday morning after his death just one week ago.

The ceremony at Shandon Baptist Church in Columbia drew hundreds of officers from across South Carolina.

Born on November 9th, Trooper First Class Dennis Ricks was just 30-years-old when he died in a North Charleston hospital, after being struck by a box truck during a traffic stop on I-26.

“He loved deeply and laughed often, and always put others before himself. Our family will never be the same without him, his warmth, or laughter,” says McKenzie Brayboy, Trooper Ricks’ sister-in-law.

Led by the church’s Senior Pastor Dr. Daniel Dickard, and attended by Governor Henry McMaster and Attorney General Alan Wilson, the service highlighted Trooper Ricks’ dedication to his work.

“He wholeheartedly believed in our mission and he executed it daily with poise, compassion and integrity, and for that the State of South Carolina says a humble, grateful, ‘Job well done, Trooper Ricks,” says Robert Woods, IV, Director of the SC Department of Public Safety.

Speakers also highlighted Ricks’ love for those around him — especially his wife Jade.

“He was so proud of her, and even prouder that he was married to her. He could be having a bad day, but if Jade would call, you could see the expression on his face change immediately,” says Colonel Christopher Williamson, Commander of the SC Highway Patrol.

His brother-in-law Bryce Brayboy describes Trooper Ricks as a perfect family man.

“If you’re hearing this and I know you are, I love you. And everyone loves you and we miss you. And promise I’ll take care of Jade. I’m gonna do great by just what you taught me. And just for now I love you my boy, I’ll see you later,” says Bryce.

The driver of the box truck was arrested and charged with driving under suspension, with additional charges pending.

Having served for two years, Trooper Ricks is the first SC trooper to die in the line of duty since 2017.

“I now have lost two men under my watch as colonel, and the pain of that never, never goes away,” says Williamson.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to an online fundraiser set up by Serve & Connect. Click here to donate.