Rickey Lee Medlinger

Ricky Lee Medlinger, 81, of Hastings, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully on October 1, 2026, at his home, surrounded by his wife, family, and dogs.

Born on February 24, 1945, in Wichita Falls, Texas, Ricky was the son of Frances George Medlinger and Faye Loreen Cummins. He married Anna Lee (Clingman) on August 7, 1971 in Wichita Falls, Texas.

Ricky was a quiet and steadfast man, strong-willed and firm in his convictions. He lived by a strong and unwavering moral compass, and his guidance, wisdom, and example shaped generations of his family. He was a man who meant what he said and said what he meant, and those who knew him knew they could trust his word.

Ricky spent his adolescent years in Wichita Falls, Texas, before moving to the family farm in Hastings, Oklahoma, where he graduated from Waurika High School in 1963. After graduation, he worked for M&V Tank Company before entering active duty in the United States Army. He served during the Vietnam War as a Specialist 5 and was awarded numerous medals for his service.

Upon returning home from the war, Ricky began working as a welder for Elliott Mobile Homes before owning and operating his own welding business for 25 years. He then spent another 25 years as a maintenance technician with the U.S. Postal Service in Waurika, Oklahoma, before retiring.

In addition to his work, Ricky was a talented Western artist who worked in multiple mediums and received numerous awards for his artwork. His art can be found around the world, leaving behind a lasting piece of his creativity and spirit.

Family was at the heart of Ricky's life. He is survived by his wife, Anna Lee Medlinger (Clingman); his son and daughter-in-law, Jimmy and Laci Medlinger; his grandchildren, Rebecca Dunn and her husband, Jace Dunn; Megan Shipp and her husband, Cory Shipp; Jaycie Medlinger, and Chase Medlinger; his great-grandchildren, Sutton and Foster Dunn, and Masyn and Austyn Shipp; his sister, Genita Rivkin; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; his older brother, Robert Medlinger; and his older sister, Velva Allison.

Those who knew Ricky will remember him for his quiet strength, authentic and friendly nature, and unwavering sense of right and wrong. He never met a person he couldn't find a connection with. He would ask about someone's family, their history, and their lineage until he found that connection, and once he did, a stranger rarely remained a stranger. He was a gifted storyteller, and his stories will live on in the memories of those who loved him.

Ricky's love for his family was often unspoken, but it was always present. He showed his love not only through words, but through his presence, his guidance, and the quiet ways he cared for those around him. He enjoyed watching rodeos, creating his art, reading all types of literature, cheering for his football teams, OU and the Dallas Cowboys, and taking in the beauty of nature from outside his window.

A funeral service will be held on Thursday, October 8, 2026, at 11AM at Hastings Baptist Church in Hastings, Oklahoma with Philip Tallman officiating. Interment will be in Hastings Cemetery under the direction of Dudley Funeral Home in Waurika. Visitation will be Wednesday, October 7, 2026 from 4-6PM. Memorials may be made to the Hastings Baptist Church.