Bobbie "Chester" Ricks, 75, of Asbury Park, New Jersey made his transition from this life on December 2, 2015 at Jersey Shore University Medical Center (JSUMC).  He was born on April 10, 1940 in Fitkin Hospital (JSUMC) in Neptune, New Jersey to the late Mr. Hazel and Mrs. Edith Ricks.

Bobbie attended and graduated from the Asbury Park School District in 1959. Upon graduating, he enlisted in the US Marine Corps, where he was honorably discharged in 1966 as Lance Corporal E-3.

He retired from Supermarket General after 30 plus years. Bobbie was an avid reader, a collector of history books, African Art, and African Artifacts. He was most happy when around his children and grandchildren, working in his massive garden, and extensive collection of house plants. One of his proudest adventures was traveling to Egypt with Dr. Yosef Ben-Jochannan.  Bobbie was also owner of a bookstore in Asbury Park in the late 70's called "Mind Opener".

He is survived by his wife, Jessie M. Ricks; two sons, Kori of Ocean, NJ, Rahsaan (Tashia) of Lorton VA; one daughter, Kali of Neptune, NJ; 6 grandchildren, Imani, Tyshon, Laila, Kairi, Amaya, and Elijah; 6 godchildren, Donivan (Rutha) Bray, Kym (Sam) Still, Kumi Allen, Kali Young, Keshawna Jones, and Zanniah Jones-Glover; sister, Harriet Womack; brother, Sidney (Alice) Ricks; sister in law, Madeline Ricks; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Bobbie will be remembered by his friends and loved ones as a person of quiet strength, very disciplined, an avid reader, and a great historian.