Charles E. Rickards

Charles "Sonny" E. Rickards, born on February 11, 1939, in Lewes, Delaware, passed away unexpectedly at his home in Milford, Delaware, on January 24, 2026. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and great-great-grandfather.

Charles spent much of his life loving and cherishing time with his family, including his wife Lieselotte (Salzer) Rickards, as well as his daughters Belinda Ann Wiley (Richard) and Manuella Sprague (Jonathan). He is also survived by his son Mike Goff (Jacqueline) and his sister Phyllis Ann Clifton. Charles was a proud grandfather to Cherri Wells (Michael), Mikel Sherman, and Christina Sherman, and a delighted great-grandfather to Alexis, Caleb, Donovan, and Aubrey; as well as great-great-grandfather to Braelynn and Kinsleigh.

A Vietnam War Veteran of the U.S. Army, Charles earned the Bronze Star Medal for his service. His interests included fox hunting, a pursuit that brought him joy and connection to nature.

Charles was preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Mary Elizabeth (Griffith) Rickards; and his brothers Alton B. Bradley, Frank Bradley, and Albert Rickards, Jr. He leaves behind a legacy of love, dedication, and cherished moments that will be remembered by all who knew him.

Services will be held on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, from 6pm-8pm at Short Funeral Services, 416 Federal St., Milton, DE 19968. A burial and military honors will be held on Thursday, February 12, 2026, at 2pm at the Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Millsboro, DE. A celebration of Charles' life will be held at The Milford Moose Lodge located at 20142 Beaver Dam Road, Milford, DE 19963, immediately following the burial.