Malachi Ricks Jr. was born in Baltimore City, Maryland, to Katie Mae Williams and Malachia Ricks Sr. on September 20, 1952. He was one of four children. He grew up in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, where he attended grade school. His love for music drove him to leave North Carolina at a young age and venture to New York City. Malachi "Mallie" was in multiple groups during his musical career. Such as The Underground Railroad, Anthology (The Centennials), The Incredible Flamethrowers, Ricks and Brown, Flight, and Human Blood. He had a minor record hit called "Harlem On My Mind" performed by his group The Underground Railroad in New York City in 1969, which enabled him to be on a few local TV stations like ABC and radio shows such as WWRL. This song can currently be found online. He also worked with Charles Huggins who was the head of Hush Productions. Hush produced and managed Melba Moore (Charles' ex-wife), Freddie Jackson, Kashif, Meli'sa Morgan amongst many others. He was performing with the group Human Blood based in North Carolina, which had a lot of regional success in the 1970s. For some time, he also performed with the group The Manhattans. While living in New York City, he worked at The Mart 125 as a jeweler. The Mart 125 is where he met Theresa. Malachi and Theresa married on July 27, 1991. This union blessed them with two daughters, Ashley and Alexis. Malachi passed his love of music to his daughters and grandson. He would often ask his daughters to sing for him every chance he got. He was a dedicated grandparent whether it was taking his grandson to karate classes or attending dad and me events at his school. He was always there. Malachi and Nehemiah shared their love for dancing, playing the drums and piano together. Malachi started his own business, as he would say he was a hustler. He started a moving company named "Let's Go Moving." This was an accomplishment he was very proud of. Malachi departed this life on January 30, 2020. He is predeceased by his parents Malachia Ricks Sr. and Katie Mae Williams and brother Jerry Williams. Malachi leaves to mourn and cherish fond memories: his long time love, Theresa Ricks; two daughters, Ashley and Alexis Ricks; his grandson, Nehemiah Jolicoeur; his sister, Ava Adebayo; his brother, Bobby Bobo; niece, Lisa Hayes and a host of loving family and dear friends. We love you dad, forever and always. Love, Ashley and Alexis You will always be in my heart. Love, Ava "A true artist does not die. He just stops giving live concerts." Lovingly Submitted by The Family