Richard W. “Ricky” Crosby, 62, of New Hope, died on Sunday, Oct. 21, at Doylestown Hospital.
Born in and raised in Trenton, Ricky graduated from St. Anthony’s High School and attended Glassboro State College (now Rowan University). A New Hope resident for over 40 years, Ricky was a well-known figure in the area. He worked most recently as a bartender at Karla’s in New Hope. Earlier he was employed at Zoubi Restaurant & Bar, John and Peter’s and the Cartwheel. An activist for the LGBT community, Ricky organized the Miss Gay USA Pageant and the Miss Gay Pennsylvania Pageant. He worked on behalf of FACT Bucks County and New Hope Pride, and was always quick to volunteer for friends in need.
Ricky was a friend to many. He was devoted to his family and friends and treasured the time they spent together. He had a great sense of humor and a big heart.
Ricky was the son of the late Harry J. Crosby and Rosemarie Battaglia Crosby Jachym, the stepson of the late Joseph Jachym, and the grandson of the late Mary Battaglia, Mary Jachym, Catherine Crosby and Roy Crosby. He is survived by his brother and sister-in-law Ronald and Kandy Crosby of Greer, S.C.; his aunt and caregiver Barbara Tkaczuk of Hamilton, N.J.; and an extended family of nieces ,nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles and friends.
There will be calling hours on Monday evening, Oct. 29, from 3 to 7 p.m. at the Van Horn-McDonough Funeral Home, 21 York St., in Lambertville.
A Celebration of Life Gathering will be held at Karla’s Restaurant, 5 W. Mechanic St., in New Hope, Wednesday, Oct. 31, starting at 3 p.m.
Donations in Ricky’s memory may be made to FACT Bucks County, P.O. Box 72, New Hope, PA 18938-0072, or to the American Cancer Society, 1851 Old Cuthbert Road, Cherry Hill, N.J. 08034.
Information provided by Van Horn-McDonough Funeral Home.
To say Ricky was one of a kind would be the understatement of the century. In a million years no one could replace him. The most honest, hilarious, real, but gentle soul I’ve ever met. There is a reason everyone flocked to him. He was and is so very special and his beautiful inner light made everyone feel a closeness to him. He will never be forgotten. Love you friend always
I worked closely with Ricky for many years at John & Peter’s. We were also good friends – I am so sorry to lose him. I love you, Ricky
I always loved New Hope, but my adoration for this little gem of a town was the day I met Ricky at Karla’s about ten years ago. He was an example of the epitome of New Hope-true to himself, brutally honest with others, and wickedly funny. I hope you are serving your famous Lemon Drop martinis with the angels. You will be missed!
Another in a long line of New Hope characters. It’s what makes New Hope the place it is. RIP Ricky.
A staple in the community. I knew of him for 12 yrs. Great man. RIP Ricky.
Ricky Crosby is also survived by his wee pup, Biddy? Bitty? (not sure of correct spelling).