Rickey L. Tomlinson, Jr.

Rickey L. Tomlinson, Jr., of Marion, passed away unexpectedly on March 10, 2026, at the age of 43. Born on April 22, 1982, in Anderson to Rickey Tomlinson and Teresa Bushman, he was raised in Summitville and graduated from Madison Grant High School. He worked as a self-employed HVAC contractor and, in January of last year, married the love of his life, Jenale Bailey.

Few people embodied the phrase “larger than life” as fully as Rickey. Charismatic, adventurous, and endlessly engaging, he approached every challenge with confidence and a genuine desire to excel. A devoted prankster who loved to make others laugh, he possessed a remarkable depth of knowledge on nearly any subject. He was an accomplished cook and found great joy in hunting, fishing, camping, and all things outdoors, yet nothing compared to the freedom he felt riding his Harley Davidson. Above all, Rickey possessed an immense heart and gave his love freely to everyone around him. Despite enduring significant physical struggles throughout his life, he never allowed them to diminish his bright spirit. Jenale cherished their quiet evenings listening to music and dancing together, moments that reflected the joy and light he brought into her life and the unique, vibrant soul he was.

Rickey is survived by his wife, Jenale Bailey; sons, Damian and Drake Tomlinson of Marion; mother, Teresa (Randy) Bushman of Marion; father, Rickey (Angela) Tomlinson of Summitville; sisters, Stephaney Tomlinson of Noblesville and Brandie Hendrix of Muncie; brothers, Kodey Tomlinson of Summitville and Wesley Haggard of Muncie; grandmothers, Wilma Tucker and Peggy Bailey; several nieces and nephews; and his lifelong friend, Derrick Cunningham. He was preceded in death by his grandfathers, Morris Bailey and Roscoe Tucker.

His memory will forever be treasured by all who knew and loved him.