Community, family and loves celebrate life of Pastor Ricky Floyd
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MEMPHIS, Tenn. (WMC) – With heavy hearts and emotions high, hundreds came together Friday to honor the life and legacy of Pastor Ricky D. Floyd.
His death stunned the community, with many still processing their emotions, but his impact was substantial.
The late pastor touched thousands of lives in Memphis for decades.
It’s been just a few weeks since his passing, and for many who knew him, it’s still tough to process.
“It hurt bad and the hurt is still here, ” Dr. Bill Adkins said.
Hundreds attended his funeral at Great Imani Church.
Those who knew him say he impacted community members from all walks of life.
Many of them filled the sanctuary, telling Action News 5, Floyd’s life was cut short.
Mayor Paul Young said, “He touched so many lives. The work that he did made up for 25 of us … but now we gotta pick up the mantle y’all.”
From Floyd’s work with nonprofits to his efforts to mentor young men through The Husband Institute, Pastor Floyd had a hand in numerous organizations throughout the city working to strengthen families and put a stop to violence in Frayser.
“This was a giving man, a loving man, and he was here for anybody and everybody,” Local pastor and LifeWise Academy Director James Broadnax said.
Family liaison Telisa Franklin tells Action News 5, Floyd was, “the one man in Memphis, TN and abroad that I believe has done more work across all genres, all denominations all socioeconomics to serve Memphis on a greater level.”
The celebration of life spanned hours, many speaking on fond memories of the long-time pastor and beloved friend, not to be overshadowed by the circumstances of his death.
“We cannot judge a person by a snapshot in time,” Dr. Bill Adkins said.
Dr. Bill Adkins called Floyd his son in ministry, sharing with attendees, how he brought Floyd to Christ more than 30 years ago.
“He lived a purposeful and a meaningful life,” Dr. Adkins said. He did what a whole lot of other preachers would never do … he left his sanctuary and went into the street.”
Pastor Floyd is survived by his wife, Pastor Sheila Floyd, and their children and grandchildren.
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