Ronald Louis Whicker Sr.

The Life & Legacy

 Sergeant First Class – Retired Ronald Louis Whicker Sr.

 January 5, 1957 – July 30, 2025

Ronald Louis Whicker Sr. was born on January 5, 1957, in New Orleans, Louisiana, the second child of Missionary Caroline Whicker and the late James C. Wicker Sr. On July 30, 2025, at the age of 68, Ronald peacefully entered eternal rest at his home in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

A proud 1975 graduate of Zachary High School, Ronald attended Bishop College on a football scholarship, where he earned the nicknames “Quicker Whicker,” “Run Whick Run,” and “Whick Dog” for his speed and skill on the field. He later attended Southern University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and in 1979, enlisted in the National Guard. Ronald also worked for many years at National Food Store before retiring.

Ronald was baptized at an early age at Oak Grove Baptist Church in Zachary, Louisiana, under the leadership of Rev. Ed O’Conner, where he sang in the choir. He later joined Richardson Chapter of God in Christ under Bishop C. Gordon in Baton Rouge and, in later years, became a member and Deacon at Interdenominational Faith Assembly under Pastor Guevara and Dr. Shannon Johnson.

As the second oldest child—though affectionately known as the “oldest brother”—Ronald embraced his role as a leader and protector in the family. He had a passion for cooking, golfing, riding motorcycles, and teaching youth, especially through T-ball with his grandchildren. He often spent special days cooking for his grandmother and cherishing time with her. Family was his greatest joy, and he made it his mission to keep everyone connected. Each January, he enthusiastically hosted what he called the “biggest Capricorn celebration of the year.”

A devoted fan of all things Southern University and the New Orleans Saints, Ronald could be found cheering at games or watching with loved ones. On game days, he often stopped by Broadmoor High School to support his stepdaughter in her roles as cheerleading and softball coach, and he proudly supported the football team in any way he could. His love and dedication extended to his children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews, whom he supported wholeheartedly.

Ronald met the love of his life, Dr. Betty Whicker, by chance at a gas station—a meeting that turned into love at first sight. Their 21 years of marriage stood as a testament to devotion, commitment, and faith. Ronald was known for his professionalism, often carrying a briefcase, and for never meeting a stranger. He had a special gift for connecting with people from all walks of life, offering his help on any project, driving big trucks, making others laugh, and lending a hand or a meal to those in need. He often said that in doing these things, he was ministering to others.

Ronald’s memory will be cherished by his loving wife, Dr. Betty Whicker of Baton Rouge, LA; his children—Charleston Johnson of Baton Rouge, LA, Ronald Bartil Smith Sr. (Constance) of Zachary, LA, Ronald Whicker Jr., Jericka Arienmughare of Youngsville, LA, Robin L. Johnson of Baton Rouge, LA, Chantel R. Johnson of Baton Rouge, LA, and Camera Whicker of New Orleans, LA; his mother, Caroline Whicker of Plano, TX; sisters Doris M. Armstrong of Zachary, LA, and Cora Levette Martin of Plano, TX; brothers James C. Wicker Jr. of Baton Rouge, LA, and Moses A. Martin of Baton Rouge, LA; grandchildren—two grandsons and seven granddaughters; sisters-in-law Alice Whitmore of Ethel, LA, and Lilean D. Harris (Steve) of Dallas, TX; brothers-in-law Minister James L. Stewart (Jocelyn) of Baker, LA, and John Stewart (Gloria) of Baton Rouge, LA; god-sister Marilyn Beal Lewis; god-brother Fernando Ruffin Sr.; aunts Minister Ivory Tolbert of Baton Rouge, LA, and Evangelist Jackie Tolbert of Oakland, CA; uncle Rev. Bidroe’s Tolbert (Clara) of Oakland, CA; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, James C. Wicker Sr.; maternal and paternal grandparents; nephew Cody Wicker; brother Charles L. Wicker; and grandparents Beatrice Hickman, Ulysses Wicker, Coral L. Tolbert, and Glanzy Tolbert.

Ronald will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His legacy of love, faith, service, and laughter will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and community.

Relatives and Friends of Ronald Whicker, Sr. are invited to the services at Interdenominational Faith Assembly, 5045 Greenwell Street, Baton Rouge, LA, 70805 on Thursday, August 21, 2025, at 10:00 am with the Interment immediately following at Louisiana National Cemetery. A visitation will be held on Wednesday, August 20, 2025 from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at S. L. Booker Family Celebration Center and will resume on Thursday at 8:00 AM. 

And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them. ~Revelation 14:13 KJV~

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