Ricky Dunham

Ricky Dale Dunham, of Watson, Louisiana, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away on August 30, 2026, at the age of 68.

He was born in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, on September 22, 1957, to the late Jimmy Dunham and Vera Krumholt Dunham and was raised in Central, Louisiana.

Ricky was a hardworking man who dedicated his career to the skilled trades as a pipe fitter and welder. He was a proud member of the local Pipe Fitters Union and, after many years of hard work, retired from the trade.

In January 2026, Ricky was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML). True to his nature, he faced the fight with strength, determination, and courage. After months of treatment, Ricky beat the leukemia, but the long and difficult battle took a tremendous toll on his body. In the end, his body grew tired from the fight. Though his time came sooner than his family would have wanted, Ricky leaves behind a legacy of strength, perseverance, and courage.

Ricky’s greatest joy was his family. He loved his children and grandchildren dearly and took great pride in each of them. He cherished the time spent with his grandchildren and the memories they created together. His relationship with his grandson, Brant, was especially precious. Known affectionately as Paw-Paw Donkey, Ricky’s famous donkey calls brought laughter and joy and became a treasured part of their relationship.

Those who knew Ricky will remember his strong personality, quick wit, sense of humor, and stubborn nature. He was never afraid to speak his mind and was always ready for a little teasing. His family will remember not only the love he gave them but also the laughter, stories, and countless memories he leaves behind.

Ricky is survived by his beloved wife, whom he affectionately called “Boutte”, Susan Dunham; his son, Brandon Dunham and wife, Angi, and their children, Kailey, Kendall, Kathlyn, and Brant; his son, Josh Dunham and wife, Rainee, and their children, JoJo, Nikki, Brutus, and Jake; bonus sons, James Nesmith and wife, Lindsey, and their children, Jacob, Julia, and Sylvie; Dustin Nesmith and his daughter, Sydney; Doug Nesmith and wife, Lindsay, and their children, Ryan, Emma, Nora, Lyla, and Teagan; and Ian Nesmith and his children, Liam and Vivian.

Ricky is also survived by his sister, Sherrie Dougay and husband, Charles; his brother, Ken Dunham and wife, Sharon; the mother of his children, Dana Dunham; and Susan’s siblings, Colleen Cox and husband, Jim, and Christopher Collins and wife, Sherri.

Ricky’s life was defined by his love for his family, his strong work ethic, his resilience, and the memories he created with those around him. He fought a courageous battle against leukemia, and when his body could fight no longer, he left this world surrounded by the love of his family.

Pallbearers will be Brandon Dunham, Josh Dunham, Ron Aime, Bryan Trotti, Jim Cox, and Jason LeSage.

Honorary pallbearers will be Brant Dunham, Ken Dunham, Charles Dougay, Buddy Aaron, and Christopher Collins.

Though he is no longer with us, Ricky’s memory will live on through his children, grandchildren, extended family, and friends. The love he shared, the laughter he brought, and the countless memories he made will remain in their hearts forever.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to UT MD Anderson Cancer Center for the love and care shown throughout his journey there.

All who knew and loved Ricky are invited to join the family in commemorating his life. A gathering will be held at Seale Funeral Home, 1720 S. Range Ave., in Denham Springs, Louisiana, on Saturday, September 4, 2026, beginning at 12 p.m. Services and burial will follow at 3 p.m. at Evergreen Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to honor Ricky’s memory with a donation in his name to UT MD Anderson Cancer Center, where he courageously fought his battle against AML, or to The PMD Foundation (Pelizaeus-Merzbacher Disease), the disease that affects his grandson, Brant. The PMD Foundation helps fund research in hopes that one day there will be a treatment or cure for PMD. We would be grateful for your support of those affected.