Former Longtime Laurel City Council Member, Court Director Edward Ricks Dies

LAUREL, MD — Former city councilman H. Edward Ricks has died, Laurel Mayor Craig A. Moe shared. Ricks served the city for more than 55 years. A Maryland native, Ricks worked 37 years for the federal court system in Washington, D.C., spending the last 15 years as director of family court before he retired in 2000.

Ricks served on the Laurel City Council from 1980 to 1988, and again from November 2011 to November 2019. He served several times as Council president.

"Residents would always tell me that Eddie was a very good listener, dedicated to his position as an elected official, always ready to help a friend or constituent in their time of need, people knew the decisions he made were reached with a lot of study; residents would say he was a man known for his dedication to the community, and that he always had a heart of gold. All very good traits to have," Moe said.

Ricks also was a lifetime member of the Laurel Volunteer Fire Department and the Laurel Volunteer Rescue Squad. He served on the Laurel Board of Appeals, Public Safety Citizen’s Advisory Committee, the city’s 150th Anniversary Planning Committee, Parks and Recreation Citizens Advisory Committee, Election Reform Committee, and was involved with various Maryland Municipal League committees throughout the years.

"Whether a committee assignment, task force or planning for an event, Eddie made things important to Laurel, its residents and its businesses happen. His devotion and dedication to his hometown knew no bounds. Laurel is a better place today because of Eddie Ricks," Moe said. "I will always remember Eddie for his friendship, dedication and service to the community of Laurel and his willingness to always be one of the first to step forward to assist whenever asked."

In honor of Moe, all state and city flags will be lowered to half-staff at city buildings through March 11.