Rickey Eugene "Thurman" Cuba, 86, of Dallas, Texas, died unexpectedly on July 12, 2022 after smoke inhalation his home of 52 years.

Rickey was born on October 18, 1935, to the union of Louie and Rosetta Cuba in Gilmer, TX.

He gave his life to Christ at an early age and was baptized at a First United Methodist Church in Gilmer, TX. He later became a deacon and an ordained minister in the Full Gospel Church where he was very proficient in the word.

After graduation Rickey ventured out to the west coast and started driving over the road. After tiring of that he started an over 30-year career with Safeway Grocery.

In 1967. Rickey took a job transfer to Dallas, Texas and found his forever love, Lee Ethel Johnson at a downtown Dallas bus stop. After a short courtship they wed in August 1967. Lee was his caregiver and even suffered burns as she attempted to rescue him from the fire that claimed his life and their home. Three children were loved by Rickey and he always boasted about how smart his kids were. He was super proud of the fact his grandchildren were college graduates and would be successful in their endeavors. His children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren were the source of pride and joy and were a constant source of contentment in his life.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Louie and Rosetta Cuba; siblings, Darnell Cuba (Lorene); Letha Bonner; and Zella Stinson (Charlie).

He leaves to cherish his memories: his wife, Lee Ethel; son, Norman Johnson (Vanessa [deceased]); daughter, Sharron Williams (Michael); daughter, Lisa Cuba; grandchildren, Janesha Dotson, Jarissa Dotson,  Norman V. Johnson, Jarica Williams and Vaneicia Johnson ; great grandchildren, Jaliyah McGrew, Mello Day and Jayceon Pittman; his nieces, nephews, cousins, family, friends, and longtime neighbor, Delores Young and family mourn his loss, but we are not without hope.