mollie barnes
Love you forever and always grandad❤️
Love you forever and always grandad❤️
Love you forever Daddy; I will cherish every memory I have with you 💗
Rick, you were not only a great brother in law but a very loving uncle to our girls who loved you dearly. We will miss you everyday but promise to remember you in all we do. Love you lots, Donna, Rob, Ella and Leah xxx
Uncle Rick, you never failed to make any of us laugh whether it was the 10000 cups of tea you drank, the cheese & pickle sandwiches or jugs full of custard (of course without sugar as your sweet enough) and of course your obsession with Chalton whether they won or lost.
I have lots of memories of you that I’ll cherish for the rest of my life, and I’ll think of you that little bit more when I drive my Jaaag as cars are something we mutually loved and would always talk about when we saw each other.
Love you lots
Mick xxx
Rest In Peace Uncle Ricky. What an amazing man you were. We will all miss you so much, I’ll never be able to drink a cup of tea and eat cheese and pickle sandwiches without thinking of you❤️ Love you xx
You have been a friend for 30 years. Have so many happy memories of our parties and murder mystery dinners. Will always think of you and your custard and endless cups of tea. Gone but never forgetten. RIP Ricky 🏴 💐
♥️send my love to you all & family & friends!
God bless Ricky it was such a privilege to of known you and able to call you a mate as well as Boss. Thanks for all the laughs rest in peace love. From the old girl who always respected you so much x
Dear Fi and the MacKennon Family
Ricky was a "legend" that cannot be replaced professionally and personally. I had the privilege of working with him the last three years. One of my fondest memories is the very first summer in the office we shared in Windsor Walk. He would sing to himself whilst reviewing his emails with his limited repertoire of George Ezra and All Saints songs whilst trying get to grips with the challenges of the day; to then pop up from behind his PC and say he was going to jack it all in and be on the next series of X factor! He was such a happy and patient character who had the " X factor" as a human being you couldn't help but be drawn to his affable personality.
I shan't be able to hear the lines "i'll be riding shotgun" & "never ever" without it bringing a smile and remembering him fondly. In addition to the Only fools and horses one liners he would come up with !
With all my love and continued affection for the MacKennon Clan Xxx Hirak Majumdar
Ricky ...such a kind, considerate, warm and friendly colleague. You made me comfortable straight away first time we met. Your contribution to the innovative Digital presentation for the Anchor Agenda careers Open Day - focused on local community and young people - and your passion for enthusing others for a career in Digital will not be forgotten.
I knew Ricky only for a short time and no he will be sadly missed condolences to his wife and family, the time that stands out to me with Ricky was the spur of the moment party at our house as some of his friends will remember .
I’m to sexy for my shirt and all the guys shirts came off we just fell about laughing god bless Ricky RIP
I only really knew Ricky through his wife, Fiona, but he was clearly loved and respected by so many people, all of whom will miss him immensely. My heart goes out to them and to Ricky, wherever he may be.
To Fiona and family
With deepest sympathy!
So sorry to hear of your loss. My sincere condolences to you and family at this difficult time. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Oh Ricky. Our friend and my boss and colleague for many years. Remembering the joy and laughter we all shared and now there’s only tears for you. Love you and can’t even begin to say how much we’ll miss you. God bless love.
Lilch and Kev xxx
So sorry to hear that Ricky passed away. Was far too young. Sending you love a d strength at this unbelievably difficult time
I was very lucky to have worked with Ricky. Although IT role was new, Ricky created a safe environment for me to learn. He was a kind, soft, funny gentleman. RIP Ricky.
Dear Ricky, a loyal and good friend.
Always there when we needed help.
Ricky we will miss you and your lovely smiley face.
Our thoughts are with Fiona and all the family.
Ricky, over the past 30 years or more, you've been part of so many happy memories, full of laughter and good times for us all. These happy memories will keep coming back in the future and make us remember and smile and keep you in our hearts and lives forever. Special love to Fi and all the family.
I only knew Ricky a short time but I got to know him really well working as his Executive Assistant and supporting him at SLaM.
We first met on 17 July 2019 when I had my interview and from the moment I walked in, he made me feel at ease. He reminded me of my great uncle Vic and could have been his son, they were so alike. I felt an immediate rapport with him.
I quickly got used to knowing exactly how he liked his tea and would make him a cuppa every hour to keep him going through his busy days. He always made me laugh as when I went to collect his mug, he would say ‘Not too much milk’. I would reply, I only show the milk to the tea! What was funnier was the first cuppa of the day that I made. I’d arrive in the office, go in his room to pick up his mug and it would be full of tea. I’d ask him if he’d got caught on a call and had it got cold and he would reply, ‘No, I put too much milk in it’. That always made me smile.
In December last year, we had an All Staff Digital Services call/event via Teams and I had made a t-shirt for him with some of the sayings he used to come out with either in our SMT meetings or when talking. He was so pleased with it when he opened it up that he put it on straight away and when the event continued after lunch, he wore it and made an announcement that I’d made the t-shirt for him (see photos). I was so glad that he liked my little fun gift!
When I got my new car in November (a coupé) he was talking about it and asked if I had floored it yet. When I replied ‘No’, he said I should!
Ricky was a lovely person who cared about his team and I really enjoyed working for and supporting him. I felt as if I had known him much longer and will (and already do) miss him a lot. I loved it when he’d had a success and would come into the office and have a little sing and do a dance!
My thoughts are with Fi and the rest of his family.
Hi Ricky - words cannot express the sorrow I feel. All I can say is I’m going to miss you immensely buddy, I will always value our friendship and time we spent together over the years.
I’m grateful I was able to take you to China and show you a different part of the world. I’ll always remember how you got me out of a spot of bother when while we were there.
We had some great fun together
I’ll always remember and cherish our friendship.
I hope you find peace my friend
Yogi
Ricky was a great friend and colleague to the Global Digital Exemplar and Provider Digitisation programme.
We loved working with him and he was a fabulous character.
NHS Digital colleagues, and I, will miss him, he really was a national asset and made a significance difference to frontline.
The family have so much to be proud of and much to celebrate from Ricky's life.
Our deepest sympathies.
The wider NHS Family's thoughts are with you in this difficult time.
Alex Chaplin
Director, Provider Digitisation, NHS Digital.
I joined SLaM as the interim Business Manager in December 19 (having taken a few months off from a previous role which didn’t work out). I had lost a lot of my confidence and so when I was getting ready to meet Ricky I knew it could be make or break. I had already been warned that he could be very demanding but his heart was in the right place.
From the moment I met him I knew that we would get on and have many debates, disagreements and laughs because with Ricky it was “what you see is what you get”.
The next few days I remember Ricky throwing me straight into the deep end with Business planning but I knew that this was going to be a roller coaster ride. My assignment was only supposed to be for a few weeks whilst supporting Ricky with recruiting to the Business manager role. However a few weeks went by and following many debates we agreed I would extend my contract. (18 months later I am still here)
My confidence soon blossomed again as Ricky was that manager that praised, critiqued, pushed and constantly motivated.
Then march 2020 came and Covid hit…. This meant rapidly changing the way we worked as a team but more importantly as an organisation.
The majority of staff moved to working from home but then there were staff that either needed to be on the hospital sites and those of us that were based at St Pauls in Bromley so that we could continue supporting end users.
This is when I really got to know Ricky…….
Every day I would come in and wonder what I would be facing with Ricky. Was he going to be jumping for joy because he had just achieved another goal or would he be asking me to amend a business case for the 15th time!
Either way every morning I would go to Costa and grab us both a hot chocolate to help us get through the day.
I still cannot believe that you are not here… I never thought that I would be lucky enough to get to meet and work with an even greater boss than I had worked with in previous years.
We laughed… Ricky tended to cry a lot… but it was certainly a blast – I will never forget you Ricky and your legacy will truly live on through your family and through your work – we will make you proud!
Love to Fi and all the family x Maria x
I worked briefly with Ricky over 5 years ago out of Denmark Hill. Although I only met Ricky a handful of times he was a person I gravitated towards due to his engaging character. We sometimes spoke of his love for Charlton Athletic, something obviously dear to him. I was devastated by this sad news. I will never forget his kindness.
Very sorry to hear of Ricky's passing. Deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. I worked with Ricky at SLaM for a number of years and he always provided a re-assuring and steadfast presence and will be sorely missed.
Though I only met Ricky a few years ago through work, and living in Newcastle, only met him in person a few times at meetings, he was such a huge and warm character it felt like you'd known him for years.
He was a real people person and made a huge impression on everyone he met through his hard work, dedication, enthusiasm, energy and his willingness to help others. He really embodied the best of the NHS.
He was brilliant to work with but also great fun to socialise with. It was never a dull evening with Ricky in the pub. He will be very much missed and remembered in our work circles.
I can only imagine the loss his family and friends are feeling and thoughts go out to everyone who's life was touched by Ricky.
I knew Ricky through my connection that I had as CIO of Mersey Care and then much more through the Mental Health GDE network. In addition to his undoubted abilities in his role the thing that struck me most was his warmth and how generous he was in including everyone which was a measure of his personal and natural charisma. I remember entering a social event the evening before a network meeting. Ricky spotted me just as walked in and was so enthusiastic in his welcome - a hug and the offer of a pint. What a great guy.
Dear Ricky
My last memory of you was the warm embrace and a peck on the cheek after i gave you your much feared Flu vaccination last year.
You've gone too soon and your warmth, humour and kindness will always be remembered.
Rest in Perfect Peace.
What a LEGEND!!
My heart aches for you and your family. There are no words for such an unimaginable loss. Rick will live on in each and everyone of you, and will always be there at every cross road you face guiding you. Thinking of you always xxx
Ricky - my friend and ally over many many years in the NHS and when all else failed we had tea and red wine!
Love you my friend and devastated that you lost this last battle.
Rest in peace always and I hope you know and felt the love and affection in which you were held by so many xxxxx
I'm so sorry for your loss, Ricky was taken far too soon. I knew Ricky since joining SLaM in 2000, and he was always so upbeat and approachable, no ego whatsoever! He will live on in our memories and in his loving family. Rest in Peace. x
Rest in peace Ricky, you will be sorely missed. Deepest sympathy to all of the family x
Ricky was part of the very fabric of SLaM; I simply cannot (and nor do I want to) imagine the organisation without him. There were lots of things about Ricky that were abundantly clear even if you had only met him once: he was a great leader; family meant everything to him; he had an uplifting spirit; he loved Charlton; no job or task was too big or too small; he could be trusted 100% with anything; he was enormously kind. Ricky was the sort of person that you don’t necessarily see all the time, but just knowing that they are there is a huge comfort.
I miss Ricky very much, as does the organisation as a whole. Colleagues and I have talked about all the things Ricky used to say and do, and the kindness, humour and support he showed, and how we will emulate that so that hopefully we can inspire people, and make them feel safe and valued, just as he did.
I send my love to Ricky’s family, and to everyone who cared for him (which must surely be everyone he ever met).
I worked with Ricky for six years at SLaM. The very definition of a 'good bloke', Ricky was universally liked by all who were fortunate enough to be acquainted with him. A day I would bump into him bouncing around the corridors in Maudsley Hospital would always be a good day.
Leaders come in all shapes and sizes and there is no doubt that the world would be a better place if there were more Rickies out there. Empowerment, genuine compassion and interest in those around him, never afraid to ask the question on everybody's mind - these are just some of the qualities we should all try to emulate.
My thoughts are with his family who loved him so dearly and I hope it brings some comfort to see the many messages from his vast number of colleagues who remember him so fondly.
My colleagues and I at NHS Arden and GEM CSU had the pleasure to work with Ricky through the work on the GDE programme and the Mental Health Network. He had such a positive impact on everyone he came in to contact with. His passion, enthusiasm and generosity drew people to him. We will remember him for his expertise, openness and humour. It has been a great privilege to have worked with him and have known him. He will be truly missed, but has left an incredible legacy. Jayne Rooke
I had the privilege of knowing and working with Ricky for more that 20 years, he was my friend and colleague. It’s hard to think of a time when he wasn’t around, he was a constant presence throughout that time, and whenever I saw him he lifted my spirits.
There was always a part of me that wished I’d been part of his team, because it was so clear that he cared for the people who worked with him, even if there were times when I’d sit in meetings with him and wish the earth would swallow me up, as he’d simply tell it like it was to his team. Well at least how it was from his perspective.
To me Ricky embodied everything that is good about the NHS, there are people that dedicate their lives to public service, they stay to own the consequences of their actions and there are others who come and go. He was a dedicated, reliable, decent kind person who I am honoured to have known.
Hindsight is a great thing and I wish I’d valued the countless lunches we had together, and the opportunity to share just one more baked potato in the Maudsley Hospital Canteen. Over the last year or so we’d hardly seen each other, but he got in contact and set up a regular series of meetings with me earlier this year. I wasn’t actually sure why we were meeting but I’m glad he reconnected with me but I wish I’d had the chance see him one more time.
I don’t have many photos of him but this was taken when he was being recorded by Microsoft a few years ago at the Maudsley.
Ricky, you and I met in November 2014 when I joined the trust, and what a fantastic journey we went on together with the team.
We laughed, cried, helped each other get through the challenges and frustrations....but you know what? We believed in what we were doing, where we were headed, and all the way through it all, we stayed true to ourselves and we kept each other strong, side-by-side.
We formed a great bond and a deep love and respect for each other, and weren't afraid to let each other know this. 'Love you mate' was one of the last things we said to each other.
I'm really proud of we all achieved together and you carried this on over the last couple of years and achieved more, leading the team all the way.
Most of all, I miss you mate, big time.
Love always to you Ricky, I'll never forget the times we had.
Stephen
x
Ricky was a special person, with a unique blend of loyalty, tenacity and generosity. I will miss his smile every day. I never had the chance to thank him properly for being an inspiration.
Ricky MacKennon … the legend that he is … I didn’t really understand why I had the deputy director of IT on my interview panel back in the day… but now I do!
Ricky has been one of the most supportive, progressive and passionate managers I have ever had… he has looked out for me, told me off, progressed me within the nhs and always been there.
He knows all his team my name, and always says hello, he has been there for family times, when outside his remit but shows how loving he is.
My heart breaks that we lost him far to
Soon, and far to early in his life… but I know he will live on through his amazing family and definitely within his family at SLaM.
I have so much love for you Ricky, and can’t believe you are no longer with us
Massive love to Fi and all the family - you’ve lost a loving husband, uncle, grandad , cousin , brother etc…. and we have all lost a legend!
Sleep well Ricky, massive hugs and kisses
You will be forever in our hearts ♥️
Sharon
❤️
You were one of the first friendly faces l met when l joined SLAM known as Bethlem and Maudsley then in 1992. We worked closely together through the minefield known as A&C and the development of IT contracts. You have left me with some great memories and even now l cannot remember you without smiling as we always had a great laugh. Nothing was ever to much or to difficult for you Ricky - sleep well my friend until we meet again.
Ricky, I was so shocked and saddened to hear of your passing. I enjoyed working with you and the rest of the SLAM IT Team. Your influence was felt throughout the organisation. I can’t imagine how SLAM is going to cope without you. No matter how obscure you knew the details of every project, no matter how long ago. It was amazing to see how much you knew about everything that was going on at SLAM.
I want to send my heartfelt condolences to Ricky’s wife, family and friends, and all my former colleagues at SLAM. Ricky was one of kind. We were all better for knowing him, and I will miss him.
Angelo
Ricky your a very special and lovely person, we will miss you so much love Pam and Bill 💕
Ricky was a great friend who I met as part of a large NHS involving digital technology and mental health. I have lot of good memories of spending time with him at various events over the last few years. He was always entertaining, and brought real warmth and humour to every situation.
My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends, and the whole digital mental health community will really miss him.
I was so very sad to hear of Rickys passing. I had known him for years and he was truly "one in a million". Ever present, ever kind and so "can do". He will be missed by so many people having made such a positive impression on all who met him. The nicest of men!
My thoughts are with Ricky's family today. He was such a bright light. We worked in the same organisation for many years but never closely together. (I'm sure it would be lots of fun it we did). I really wanted to share my thoughts and reflections however, as I was always struck by how friendly and upbeat Ricky was. He always brought a pleasant manner and lightness to humour with him. He'll be so missed.
Ricky will be missed. He was a people person , loved what he did and was great colleague. may he rest in peace.
Ricky will be greatly missed. He was people person and great colleague. May he rest in peace.
Dear Ricky I will miss you. I learned lots from you over the years we worked together and appreciated your approach, humour, humility, kindness and care- such great personal and leadership attributes. You leave behind a big gap. My thoughts are with you and your family and friends x
So shocked to learn such sad news and the loss of such a long-standing and supportive (and funny) colleague.
Ricky always spoke so fondly and proudly about his family and my thoughts are with you all at this difficult tome
I met Ricky through the London CIO Council and what a wonderful, vibrant, kind and funny colleague he was!
Had such lovely times together, which I will cherish
All of my love to friends and family
Lisa
Ricky was a lovely man. A perfect gentleman. It was an honour to have known him and worked with him.
Rest in peace Rick. You will always be remembered. Sending our love to all❤️ from Amiee, Aaron, Henry & Penelope xxx
I have known Ricky for over 20 years since he first joined IT as Head of the Department.
I will always remember and cherish our friendship. We used to laugh and joke a lot whilst we drank our early morning cup of tea together. He would always update me on his building projects for his family members, showing me pictures on his phone of what he had been up to at the weekend.
He would pay particular attention to the spreadsheets I created for him and he could spot a mistake in a formula a mile away. He would then joke about it, until I had eventually found the mistake and corrected it.
He also joked that I was never in the right place when he wanted to discuss something with me.
He was a “legend” and will be sadly missed by so many people.
Rest in Peace Ricky. My thoughts are with Fi and the rest of Ricky’s family.
Farewell Rick
We had 14 amazing years together which I will always treasure.
What we shared was deep respect for each other and whilst we had our moments, you always brought energy, insight and perspective which I greatly valued.
Rick changed the way people used technology in their work and never relented in the pursuit of improving health experiences.
When one looks back in life there tend to be few people who actually made an impact, but Rick was certainly one of those for me.
In recent years we didn’t have contact, but it didn’t matter, I would hear his name being mentioned at meetings in Oxford and smile as I was reminded of those times we shared.
Will miss you greatly my friend
Sincere condolences to all the family.
Mike x
Dear Fiona and family,
I worked across from Ricky at King's College London as part of King's Health Partners. Ricky really cared about us all working together to make a better NHS and to provide a better patient service - I was struck by how he was prepared to go further than others to make this happen. I, and the team at KCL IT will miss him, his deep knowledge of the NHS, his humour, and his commitment to getting things done. Most of all, I will just miss the causal chats and conversations we would have from time to time.
Nick Leake
Ricky,
I didn’t get to meet you enough times by all accounts, but felt compelled to write and donate something because of the friendship I have with your son Neil.
Neil has always spoken so highly of you, and the stories I’ve heard are inspirational and resonate with morales I hold close to my heart. The love and care you’ve had for all your family inspires me to provide that to mine, since whatever it is you’ve done, it’s made one incredible man of Neil and he’s an absolute credit to you and your wife Fiona.
I know you’ve exited this world knowing this, achieving what every father can only hope for. Your legacy lives on and has even touched someone you barely know.
Rest in peace knowing that!
All the best,
Josh
Rest in peace Ricky. I will always remember when you had the log cabin built in the garden and were telling the builders how to do it. Such a legend xx
Ricky my father in law,
I’ll be forever thankful for the love and support you have given to us. A grandad my girls will remember forever. You’ll be missed so dearly ❤️ Em xx
Dear family - I worked with Ricky for many years. He was great at his job, a lovely colleague and I am shocked he was taken so quickly and so young. I am sending all my deepest sympathies and thoughts for you all. I know he had a big family whom he loved dearly and I’m sure you miss him terribly. He will be missed at work as well. I will only have positive memories of him and I know that he made a big difference to the lives of others. With love Al Beck (Head of Psychology)
So lucky and privileged to have known Ricky - what a Guy. Being both 'early starters' was a bonus for me . What you saw you got with Ricky. Shared lots of stories but my overriding thoughts are what a fabulous family man he was and so proud when he talked about his 'lot'.....
Digital Services and CEF latterly shared office spaces and there was always a certain type of 'banter' going on.... some might have been shocked but as was said " we're cut from the same cloth"...…
Ricky was quite partial to a doughnut or whatever cake was on offer. Ricky also made the domestic who cleaned his office a 'cuppa' every day that he was in which really says everything about the man.
Thankful for the memories and how lucky were we to have Ricky in our lives.
Thoughts are with all Ricky's family as he lives on in our hearts.
My heart broke a little when I heard the sad news that Ricky had passed away. A shock I was not expecting but unfortunately that is how cancer takes our loved ones. May he rest in peace and I sent love and light out to his family and friends to enable them to get through this tough time. RIP Ricky you were one of the good guys! xx
I have found it so difficult to put into words working with Ricky for 29 years and what that has really meant to me as there are so many stories and experiences to share.
So I thought what would I say, if I had the privilege to talk to Ricky, one more time for just one minute and suddenly it become simple!
I would thank him for everything he has done for me and my family, tell him how much I miss him and that I will never forget him and most importantly thank him for being my friend. Sleep well Ricky, love you lots xxxx
Sending of my love and thoughts to you Fi and family xxxxx
I had the pleasure of working both with you and for you for nearly 12 years, (Lewisham & Guys & SLaM).
You will be missed so very much, you was 1 in a million who succeeded in a way that can only be admired and respected by colleagues and friends.
I met Ricky in 2-3 meeting but I still remember him, he is very emotional and string person. His news was a real shocked to me. RIP.
x Jyoti
I had the pleasure to know Ricky for 23 years. I first met him when I started working for Lewisham & Guys Mental Health NHS Trust, and I knew instantly that he had a fantastic charismatic personality and generally wanted to make a positive difference for us all.
I remember Ricky countersigning my children’s passport photos, and I was touched when he stated that he was a family friend on the application. Ricky was always willing to share his lunch sandwiches, and if you were lucky his picnic bars, and this turned into who can get the coffees competitions. He was always fair and generous to his colleagues and friends.
Ricky always mention his three great passions: Charlton Athletic FC, our NHS, and most importantly of all, his love for his family. I will miss him and my deepest sympathies to his family and friends.
I have known Ricky for over 20 years. I first met him at Leegate House, when Lewisham was merging with B&M. We instantly got on and had a lot in common. He ended up being my boss and after the challenge of the merger we then had the next challenge with the year 2000 project, making sure all finance systems were compliant.
We used to play 5-a-side football every Thursday night, he was a great footballer and organiser on the pitch, fun times.
When Ricky moved to IT we always kept in close contact, always meeting up at different sites where possible, having a cuppa and chatting about everything, from work to family. He was a reliable, dedicated colleague and personal friend. I knew I could phone him or contact him at any time and he would do the same.
It is very difficult to accept he is gone. A big loss for everyone especially his family.
RIP Ricky, never forgotten.
I am very sorry for your loss and wanted you to wish you comfort and peace as you remember Ricky, it was a pleasure to have worked with him over the years, he was always a kind and considerate colleague, happy to help with anything and his loss will be felt by many, but more so by you as a family. Rest in Peace Ricky
Ricky I will miss you so much. I will miss the laughs we had and the support you gave to me as a friend and a brilliant colleague for over 25 years. I can't hope to summarise how much you contributed to the Trust, the team and to me over that period but it has been reflected in the number of colleagues and former colleagues who have approached me to express their shock and sadness at your untimely passing. Thinking of you, your love and our friendship will always bring a smile to my face. You often talked with pride and love about Fiona and your family and how much joy they brought you - my thoughts are with them and everyone who knew you as we all come to terms with losing you.
I heard Ricky before I ever met him... I liked him even then.
He got to the point, talked straight, held onto good values and made you feel a part of something worthwhile.
But there was always that cheeky chap not far below the surface waiting to come out and sidewinder a conversation....and I liked that also.
Ricky, the world is lot less of a happy place without you.
If it had not been due to the pandemic, I would love to spend more time with Ricky. I just migrated to UK and started to work with Ricky at NHS, and he has been very supportive and caring. He never failed to ask me how am I doing or settling in every time we met face to face, never failed to offer tea or coffee or any snacks. It felt like having a real dad in the office. Truly gonna miss him. Rest In Peace.
You were a friend who was there when I needed, a colleague and Boss who supported me to achieve all that I have. We shared laughter and tears during the past and I would not have missed any of it. Thankyou My Friend.
Love Always,
Stuart.
I have so many fond memories of the time we use to work together in SLAM. Ricky, I will miss you so much. Thank you for everything you have done for the NHS. I hope you know how much you are loved by everyone and the positive impact you made at SLAM - it will never be the same without you.
Sending my deepest sympathies to Ricky's family xxx
I had the privilege of working with Ricky for 8 years at SLaM. For the first 4 years I was in the same office as him at Leonard House and I will never forget his cheese sandwiches, Greggs Tottenham cakes and "mud-coloured" coffee requests. Instead of asking for a drink he would say "a coffee would go down a right treat". And that was Ricky. Cheeky, but to the point.
He was one of a kind and left such an impression on me. He was a great boss and always had the time for me if I was struggling with anything. He was the kind of guy I saw living until he was 105 years old, with so many tales to tell. I still can't believe it and my heart goes out to his wife and all of his family, who he was incredibly proud of xx
One of my fondest memories of him was when he got his SLK and took us down to the car park to show it off. He was so proud. Ricky always said it how it was and I always respected him for that. To this day I still say "shocking" and think of him. Sleep well Ricky, taken too soon but you will never be forgotten. Lou x
Ricky was a warm and wonderful human being with an irrepressible smile, an enthusiastic, optimistic approach to life and a strong work ethic, underpinned by a deep-rooted commitment to supporting new innovations in his area of expertise to improve the lives of patients and service users. It was with great shock and sorrow that I learnt of Ricky's illness and sudden passing. He will be sorely missed by his colleagues in SLaM and King's College London. I offer sincerest condolences to his wife and family on their great loss
I would like to offer my sincere condolences to you all, so sorry for your loss. I first met Ricky at Leegate House, some 20 odd years ago now, he was one of the good guy's.... He was always happy, friendly and approachable and when I did see him in the Trust he would talk about his family, he was so proud!
So sad and sorry to hear of Ricky’s passing, taken far too soon
I have known Ricky for most of my 30 nhs years, from the Lewisham & Guys days and then SLaM. It was always helpful having a good contact at the top to get things done in IT! And funny driving along and spotting him putting his bins out one evening, instantly updating on all the new IT initiatives coming our way - he is a huge loss to his family and the NHS💙🌈
I didn’t talk to him lots but if I did he always mentioned his family
Sending you all love and strength at a very sad time x
Ricky, what an absolute pleasure it was to work with you through all those years. I’m devastated that you’re gone. You had such drive, such ambition and such love for your teams (SLaM, Digital and Charlton!). And you worked so hard to progress SLaM and the wider NHS community. All of this was done with an infectious wit and charm that made all who you touched have a lighter day.
You never forgot what was important and I know how much you loved and cherished your family. You were a lovely guy who I very much admired and respected, I wish you great peace and I wish your family my deepest sympathies.
I am left with many happy memories as, I’m sure, will anyone who had the privilege of your company.
Your legacy lives long.
Rest in Peace my friend.
Rest in peace Rick. What a man. A brilliant father, husband and grandad. Adored by his family and loved by many more. The youngest looking 50-odd year old ever (Fiona maybe he was telling fibs, I never told you this but I think I remember him from school a couple of years above me). A lovely lovely man, always very friendly and polite to me and a serious footballer too. My defensive midfielder in the all-conquering football team we played for.
Rick you will be massively missed by all but I am pretty sure your whole family know you are still looking after them, still caring for them and still looking down very proud of them.
Take care up there Rick and we will all see you up there at different times mate x
Lots of love from Leo, Fifi and Bella
X
Our thoughts are with you all. Thank you Ricky for being such a good friend to our family. X
I was so very sorry to hear of Ricky's passing. I knew Ricky over the last twenty years or so in SLAM and he was very helpful to me and my team. I wrote to him in the last year to thank him for the digital work that had gone on to support us all in remote working. He will be greatly missed. Sending my deepest condolences to his family, Tara
It was a pleasure to know Ricky. I loved his enthusiasm and commitment to digital services at SLAM. I will miss the laughs, the joint cooperation, the challenge and the cups of tea ( and more recently virtual cups of tea!) at our monthly SLP meetings. It’s such a shame to loose him so soon and I send my condolences and best wishes to his family and colleagues. Alison x
Ricky - you were an amazing man. So energetic, enthusiastic and full of support. I will always remember your positive spin on things even when things were looking down (that included Charlton's change in fortunes! :-) ). It's your leadership that has helped to develop the services we enjoy today in the trust.
I am grateful for our friendship and the support you have provided over the years.
My heart goes out to your beautiful family & MacKennon clan more widely.
May you rest in peace for ever. Take care my friend.
Much love
Omer
Really genuine person, always had time to pop his head in on the Service Desk Team to say hello when ever he was about. My and deepest condolences to his family.
May he rest in peace.
I first met Ricky on 9th September 2001 when I joined finance. Ricky made me welcome and always spared time to chat on the many times our paths crossed.
Ricky was a genuine person who was always good company
With sincere condolences to Ricky's family from a grateful work colleague. He was a wonderful man and role model for us all with his dedication, humour and kindness. He will not be forgotten. Thank you for sharing the service with us, it was a great tribute to him and how much he was loved by all. With love, Nicola Byrne
Dear Family
Thank you for live streaming Ricky's funeral. It was an warm and amazing tribute. I don't know you but I could see Ricky throughout the service in the things you said and the way you were - I am sure he "lives on" in you.
Take care. Al (Alison Beck - Head of Psychology, SLaM)) x
I knew Ricky from when I joined SLaM 11 years ago. He was a lovely, kind and always happy man who was hands on with everything. A legend who will missed by so many and who will leave such a void at SLaM. Rest in Peace Ricky xxx
Ricky, you will be hugely missed by all of your SLAM family. The place just wont be the same without you. You were one in a million.
Condolences to Ricky's family, sending you love and strength.
RIP Ricky x
Dear Ricky,
May you rest in peace.
Dear Fiona & family, the world has lost a true legend and has left a Ricky-sized void in all our lives. Ricky was a larger than life character and his presence and laughter will be missed. I remember him sitting on our living room floor playing with my Daniel as a baby - Ricky was all about family and we shall miss him terribly. All our love to you and the family. xxxxxx
I had the privilege to work with Ricky for 17 years in the NHS. He was a wonderful boss, a reliable colleague, a role model and good friend. You gave so much to us; not to count the many opportunities but also your generous heart...
We will miss you, Ricky! You were one of a kind and a real "legend"!
My sincerest condolences to Fiona, to your lovely mum and the Family...
Murat
I find it so difficult to process that you are gone Ricky. Since the news of your death you have been in my thoughts, that cockney accent repeating old says ‘shocking!’ ‘I’d love one’ (cuppa tea hint), ‘ain’t exactly rocket science’.
I began SLaM at 15 years old and left at 28. You were a huge part of everyone’s lives there, you taught me how to be a grafter. How everything has a solution and to always keep going. You breathed personality into everything, shouting for you ‘Rickayyyyy’ (Bianca from eastenders), your random cartwheels and celebratory dances. Shaking your hand and no idea why. Sharing half your cheese sandwich with people and the millions of cups of tea you would drink. Whenever we did a birthday whip round you always chucked in a very generous amount for that person. Everyone was your ‘mate’.. ‘where’s my mate?’ I would witness the most professional person soften and laugh so much being in your presence.
You always rolled your sleeve up no matter what the job (even if it was to do DIY in the office!). You never shyed away. You were brave, courageous, generous and an aspiration: You climbed the ladder at work through sheer determination, taking people along with you.
I really can’t believe you’re gone, I feel for your whole family and friends. He truly was a remarkable person x
Dear Ricky, sorry to see you go. I am relatively new to digital services in SLaM but have felt touched by your kindness and support. I've always felt welcomed to the SMT meetings from day one, supported in the ambition to engage with clinicians and provide better care for patients, improve the visibility of digital health and celebrate digital news. Even through the hardest of the pandemic, you made the team felt able to cope with the increasing demands and challenges ahead and you always had time for all of us to come together as people. Digital is about people and I want to thank you for leading from the front.
It's so hard to believe that Ricky is no longer with us, he was someone at SLaM that everyone just knew. He was an open book, you didn't need to know him well to know that he was funny, caring, dedicated and honest. If you did know him well, you were very lucky indeed.
As a family you will know that he is irreplaceable, but he will genuinely never be forgotten by his SLaM family too. My thoughts are with you all, may he rest in peace.
Dearest Ricky's friends and family - my deepest condolences to you all. He's just such a lovely guy to know and one of the few people at work I could always turn to to sort out gremlins getting in to the Trust's IT system, and also when I need football therapy, and no, not just cos I'm a Gooner.
He's always been kind and approachable, with a smile on his face, making time for everyone and always leaves people feeling uplifted - the best of the best.
I know he'll be lifting everyone's spirits up there in heaven - enjoying playing football with all the good folk who have rejoined the universe.
I've attached a pic taken of me and my fella, ahead of the Euros final, which I feel Ricky would appreciate. My thoughts are with you all, sending you all massive hugs and positive vibes. xxxx
What can I say about the absolute legend and the man I am so proud to call my dad and even prouder for my kids to call you grandad. Will love and miss you for ever, Matt, Danielle, Raya and Bobby xxx
It is truly hard to find the words, He is a character I will never forget, having worked with him for a couple of years.
It was hard not to really like Ricky, even when he signs you up for the Charlton news letter, and you are a West Ham supporter
Rest In Peace "mate"
I first met Ricky when I was working in South West London and immediately thought what a great guy he was. He was always full of ideas and suggestions and really wanted to make things work in a better way.
When I got to SLaM and started to know him more, I just liked him more, always the same positive outlook and can do attitude. His work in making sure that SLaM had a modern IT system meant that when Covid hit us all we were able to immediately shift to remote working in a successful way.
What an amazing career he had from starting 40 years ago to become the Chief Information Officer at a massive organisation and doing it in a way where everyone still liked him.
My memories of Ricky will be going down to his office – the biggest in the Trust no less – and him proudly showing me the photos of his family and also promising me that when he went on his trip to China to see new technology he wouldn’t come back with a bug in his work phone!
Ricky – what a man. I was privileged to know and work with you. We all miss you.
I am just so sorry to hear this news. Ricky will be missed by all of us who worked with him. I remember his smile and how much we all enjoyed working with him. And also how much be helped us all. Rest in peace.
I am so sorry to hear about the sad news. It is hard to believe what has happened! My thoughts are with you and your family at this difficult time. Taken too soon! We worked together from 2008-2014, went to countless CEO meetings together, we had our debates and also had some laughs. There were a good few slam Xmas parties too back in the day though I have only managed to find one pic! Rest In Peace x
Dear Ricky thank you all the support and kindness you showed me and every single one of our South London and Maudsley nurses. I am very grateful for your friendship to all of us. We will miss you. Sending love to your family Vanessa xx
I worked with Ricky over a number of years on and off and always looked forward to his energy, passion and humour. My sincere condolences.
Thinking fondly of Ricky and how much he meant to our Digital Services Team and his NHS colleagues. Like the rest of us, simply can't believe you're gone. Thoughts are very much with your family, who you cherished.
You were such a character. Always offering me a share of your sandwich and endless cups of tea, once when I said I was OK you gave me half a packet of crisps instead. You were so proud when we won you some glassware for the trophy cabinet. Would not and could not have done any of this without your unwavering support. I hope you're up there somewhere, admiring the legacy you've built.
Thank you Ricky - you really were one of the good ones. Adios, and may you rest in peace xx
ricky, thanks you for being such a very special uncle, you will forever be in my heart love you ❤️❤️
Ricky,
Going to really miss you Rick and I was only your brother in law, so can’t imagine how Fi, your mum, kids, grandchildren, other family members and work colleagues feel.
The part I enjoyed at the family gatherings was us talking about football, work or whatever, as well as hanging about together.
On the football side don’t think Luton Town FC ever beat Charlton Athletic when we attended these matches, so the winning side of you always shone through, as people have already mentioned in your tributes how you were always successful and determined, so again you won the dual here. If only I knew you was born in Blackburn ha ha, as you got a nosebleed if you went further north than Luton lol.
You always had work going on whenever we met, always charging mobile or laptop just to send an email or keep your eye on the daily figures etc as well as finishing other projects you had going on, from decorating a room or someone needing you to do something.
You was also so generous with giving or helping and nothing was too much trouble for you, always getting first drinks in or helping screw or nailing something in.
I will now always wonder what we would have done later in life when we retired but will now cherish the memories we all have of you, rest in peace mate xx
RIP Uncle Ricky.
Miss ya loads. Love me and Dexter xx
In memory of my Darling Son Ricky. Will love you forever and you will always be in my heart. RIP my darling. Thank you everybody for your tributes and donations.
Love you love Mum xx
To a dear nephew Ricky.
RIP you will always be remembered as a kind and thoughtful person.
From Auntie June and the boys xxxx
I didn't know Ricky personally; only met him online when I nominated the IT team for the SLAM "star of the year" award in 2020 - a year in which there were many many stars, but this team stood out for their dedication and commitment to helping all of us manage to continue working in the pandemic. Ricky took the award on behalf of everyone: he was showered with praise for what he had achieved with his teams... it was an extraordinary achievement, from what seems like an extraordinary man. I am so sorry for your loss.
RIP. We will miss you all so much. Hope your all having a big cuddle. Lots of love Laura, Mum and Auntie June xxx
Ricky, me Kim and family hope your at peace, on that great green Valley football pitch in the sky. X
Having worked at SLaM for nearly eight years, I can say that there was no one else like Ricky. I always admired and respected his hard work, honesty and his willingness to fight for those he believed in. He was a great CIO and a fantastic person to have a lively debate with down the pub! He will be greatly missed. My deepest sympathy and condolences to his family.
On behalf of the entire NHS CIO community, I would like to send our condolences to his family, the trust, his colleagues, his team and friends.
Ricky was a shining example of 'What a Good Digital Leader' looks like? Pushing the boundaries, supportive leader and relentless focus on supporting the best outcomes for patients.
May he rest in peace and his legacy live on!
Sonia Patel
National CIO for health and care
NHSX
What a shock it as to find out about the passing of such a great person. I've worked in the Trust for over 10 years and have always had our paths cross. You're energy was amazing and the way you engaged with everyone you met. I remember our few conversations on the early train into work and what an absolute pleasure it was to know you. You'll forever be missed and hard shoes to follow at work. Sending support and strength to your family and friends. RIP Ricky, Charlotte x
A year gone already mate, sorely missed. Rest in peace Rick x
I am in complete disbelief and wish all the strength to his family. I worked with Ricky for a very very long time. He was so approachable, his accent comes at you thick and strong, such a local man but I was in awe of his intelligence. He was always 2 steps ahead and for the record. Charlton probably only now have a good shot at united lol. Rest in peace sir