RICKY ‘RICK’ J. STEARNS

FERRISBURGH — Ricky “Rick” J. Stearns, 61, passed away Aug. 13, 2026, leaving behind a legacy defined by hard work, devotion to his family, and a life full of laughter and stories.

Born Nov. 13, 1964, to Leonard “Sonny” Stearns and Kathleen (McNulla) Stearns, Rick grew up on his family’s farm in Ferrisburgh, Vt. Life on the farm shaped his work ethic and created many unforgettable memories —from the early mornings milking before school and summers spent surrounded by cousins on the farm. Rick had his fair share of farming moments, like getting chased by bulls and managing to get not one, not two, but three tractors stuck in a single go. Farm life was demanding, but Rick approached it with the same humor and grit that defined everything he did.

He took immense pride in saving up every penny to buy his dream car, a shiny new Camaro Z28 — even if he famously managed to crash it the same day he got his license. His love for cars came from his father, Sonny. In his youth and throughout his young adult life, he was an avid athlete who loved basketball and baseball.

Family was the center of Rick’s world. From growing up with many cousins, both older and much younger, he was prepared and ecstatic to become a father. He was a deeply devoted father to his four children: Jordan, Allyson, Jeffrey, and Tucker. Rick spent countless hours coaching their softball and baseball teams, driving them to practice, and cheering from the sidelines or umpiring from behind the plate. His commitment to others extended throughout his family; he spent many years selflessly taking care of his mother, Kathy, while her health declined.

Rick had a great appreciation for the simple things in life — he was a fan of the Dallas Cowboys, loved classic rock (with a particularly infamous story involving an Eagles concert ticket fiasco shared with his closest friends), and possessed a sense of humor that ensured no one stayed quiet for long when he was around, similarly to his children. Above all, he loved his family deeply and gave endlessly to those around him.

Rick is predeceased by his father, Sonny; his mother, Kathy; and his sister, Debb.

He is survived by his beloved children, Jordan, Allyson, Jeffrey, and Tucker; the mother of his children, Tammy; his brother, Rob, and sister-in-law, Michelle; his nephew, Jack, and his wife, Ayla; along with a wide circle of extended family, close friends, and loved ones who will miss his warmth and laughter.

A celebration of Rick’s life will be held at the end of September at the American Legion Post 14, 100 Armory Lane, in Vergennes, Vt. Family and friends will gather to share stories, honor his memory, and celebrate his life. Exact date and time details will be shared once finalized.

In lieu of flowers, the family invite you to make a donation to Vergennes Area Youth League Baseball/Softball (VAYL). ◊