Carol Juanita Ricks-Aliff

"Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God." - Matthew 5:8

With unwavering faith and boundless grace, our beloved Sister Carol  Juanita Ricks was called home to be with her Lord and Savior on October 25, 2024. Born on October 3, 1948, in the Saratoga area of Suffolk, Virginia, Carol’s life was defined by a deep love for Christ, a gentle spirit, and a steadfast dedication to serving others. She sought to honor God in all she did, from her cherished family roles to her service in the church and community.

Born to Melvin and Eva Colander and lovingly raised by her adopted parents, Theodore and Estelle Ricks, Carol embodied the values of faith, kindness, and resilience from a young age. She was a graduate of John F. Kennedy High School, class of 1966, and attended Norfolk State University. Carol was first married to the father of her four children, raising them with love, faith, and strength. Later in life, she married Henry F. Aliff, with whom she shared her later years, continuing her journey with grace and devotion.

Carol was a cornerstone of Eatons Temple Holiness Church, where she served as Fundraiser Chairperson, a member of the Mass Choir, and founder of the BBE Gospel Chorale. Her creativity and compassion extended beyond music as she joined the Outreach and Praise & Worship Teams and contributed to the Food Distribution Ministry at Love Christian Fellowship Center. Carol’s contributions left a lasting legacy of devotion and love within her church and community.

Throughout life’s every challenge, her trust in the Lord was her guiding light, bringing peace and strength in every season. Now, she rests eternally in His embrace, reunited with those she loved who went before her. Her faith has indeed brought her home, at peace with her Savior.

Carol was predeceased by her parents: Melvin Colander and Eva Colander and her adopted parents, Theodore Ricks and Estelle Ricks; siblings: Margaret Ricks (Sister), Melvin Colander Jr (brother), and Jerry Colander (Brother).

Carol leaves to cherish her memories by her surviving family members; husband, Henry F. Aliff; children: Colette R. King (daughter), Ian C. Green (Son), Stacey C. Green (Son) and Chelsea N. Hopewell (daughter)- Woodson D. Hopewell, III-Husband; siblings: Nicky Ricks- Brother, Jeffrey Bennett, Betty Ann Colander, Francis Jean Jones -Veronica Jean Colander; grandchildren: Tierra Carter- Green, Cameron Carter-Green, Jorydn Carter-Green, Desmond Green, Dorian Green, Malakai Green, Austin King and Alexis Stroud; as well as a host of nieces and nephews. 

“He has fought the good fight, finished the race, and kept the faith.” - 2 Timothy 4:7

A public viewing will be held 12 -7pm, Saturday, November 2, 2024 in the Melvin J. Blowe Chapel of Crocker Funeral Home, Inc.  A celebration of life will be held 1:00 pm. Sunday, November 3, 2024 at Eaton’s Temple Holiness Church. She will be laid to rest in the church cemetery. Professional services with dignity have been entrusted to Crocker Funeral Home, Inc.