This and That – Ricky Latch, A Fond Remembrance.

I was saddened to read the article about dear Ricky’s fatal car crash. I first met Ricky at auditions for SCROOGE THE MUSICAL in the fall of 1987. The show was directed by Kinard Fite for the Friends of the Saenger. To the day God called Ricky Home, he was one of the kindest, most loving Christian men I’ve ever known.

Ricky grew up in a rough and tumble world. During a very harsh time in his life, he culled out a loving home for his wife and children. Alas, he also had to endure the gnawing, mental anguish that comes from losing a child. But even with the heartaches in his life, Ricky never forgot who his Savior was or who his true friends were.

His loving kindness is what tethered me to him during a dark time in my life. Many late-night calls and many cups of coffee later, he pulled through those trying days. And for that and his friendship, I will be forever grateful.

His bigger-than-life laugh and substantial physical presence are the reasons he was cast in the show. As he said with a wry smile, “I AM a portly gentleman!” Oh! Dear Ricky, yes, you were! But you were so much more!

Big hug to you, dear old friend…until we meet again.