Mr. Gary Joseph Ricci II

Gary Joseph Ricci II, age 49, of Fuquay-Varina, NC passed away peacefully in his home on September 8th, 2026. He was known as a caring and loving son, brother, friend, and “Uncle Gary.” He was survived by his mother, MaryMargaret Ricci of Fuquay-Varina, NC, and his brother, Orlando Ricci of Mooresville, NC, along with an aunt, cousins, and countless people that Gary opened his heart to and considered family.Once someone entered his heart, a piece of them always remained. He was preceded by his father, grandparents, and beloved pets, who he joined in heaven.

Gary grew up in West Seneca, NY, where he graduated from West Seneca West High School in 1995. As a proud Buffalonian, and avid Bills fan, Gary spent over 30 years sharing his love of sports, tattoos, music, cars, movies, video games, and wrestling with so many close friends. His passion for soccer lasted well beyond his playing days as he spent over a decade as a youth soccer coach in the town of West Seneca. He took pride in his ability to make a difference in the lives of those he coached and came in contact with. A value that he continued to this day through charitable donations to Toys for Tots and other organizations that aided others.

After graduating from Hilbert College in 1999, with a degree in Psychology and Criminal Justice, Gary spent the better part of three decades supporting marginalized individuals with unique needs. He worked in NY with at-risk youth in facility-based care before moving to Raleigh, NC in 2008. Once in NC, Gary continued to support the TBI, MH, and I/DD population in both residential and community settings. He was known for his work ethic and dedication as he approached every task with commitment, determination, and a sense of responsibility that inspired those around him. His pride was not only reflected in the quality of his work, but also in the integrity, compassion, and care he demonstrated each day.

In his free time, Gary loved “Betty the Bronco,” the Bronco Club, attending car shows, procuring Star Wars, Harry Potter, and Godzilla collectibles, as well as playing vintage video games. His passion for these activities were gladly shared with anyone who wanted to talk about them as he never met a stranger. He also enjoyed the memories he made with his mother and brother, especially during Thanksgiving and Christmas time. Additionally, Gary was passionate about the friends who became family to him and the time they spent together. The people he loved brought pure joy to his life.

Gary was truly a remarkable individual whose presence made a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to know him. He will be remembered most for the relationships he builtalong with having a kind heart, hearty laugh, welcoming spirit, and a hug that stayed with you forever. Gary went out of his way to make others feel valued and appreciated as he radiated kindness and love in every aspect of his life. Gary was loved by many and will be dearly missed.

Please join us for a celebration of life car event in honor of Gary on Saturday, October 17th at 3761 Sumner Blvd in Raleigh, NC. The event will be from 10am-2pm.