Richard Dwayne Puckett

Richard (Rick) Dwayne Puckett, 66, passed away Saturday, November 18, 2023 at his home on Lookout Mountain, GA.

Born in Salisbuy, NC to the late Robert and Joan Carlan Puckett, Rick was lifelong resident of Chattanooga.

He attended Bess T. Shepherd and Tyner High School and was known for his exceptional personality, free spirit living life on the edge, and doing it his way. Rick loved Harleys and built his first at the age of 16.  He always said this was when his dad taught him the meaning of persistence.

Owning his own construction business, he met many people but never met a stranger, just someone he didn’t know yet and he could size you up quickly.  Anywhere he went, someone knew him. The nickname “Bones” just stuck but his Native American name was “ Two Feathers”.    Rick was well known around the pool table for many years, winning trophies ad accolades.  Later in life, he loved showing his four rail shot.

Rick was most proud of his accomplishment at Oxford House where he was an alcohol and drug counselor for several years earning awards for his work. It continued up until he gained his wings.  He never turned his back on anyone but was tough on you and you had to want it.

Rick loved music from an early age. He often spoke of his mother playing oldies and him swinging in the back yard singing alone.  Also form an early age he was destined to stir things up.  Always on the go, never resting too long in one spot. One thing could always be said, “you knew where you stood with Rick because he held nothing back”.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Mendy Varnell;  sons, Nick (Kristy) Puckett, Chattanooga and Shawn Messimer, Rockingham, NC;  bonus son, Christopher Ashby, Raleigh, NC;  bonus daughter, Laura (Justin) Boatner;  brother, Bobby Puckett;  sisters, Cindy (Michael) Ford, Missy (Shaun) Schrimpsher, all of Ooltewah;  grandchildren,  Christopher,  Helena and Malaki Puckett, Chattanooga;  bonus grandchildren, Elleena Ferguson, Reyna and Jackson Boatner; several cousins, nieces & nephews.

A memorial service will be held Tuesday, November 21st at 6 PM in the funeral home chapel.

You may share condolences with the family at www.heritagechattanooga.com

The family will receive friends Tuesday, November 21st from 4-6 PM  at Heritage Funeral Home, 7454 E. Brainerd Road.

Click HERE to view the livestream