Lakeyisha Nicole "Nikki" Ripley, 53, of Luverne, AL, passed away peacefully and in wonderful care on the morning of September 25, 2026. She was born on June 22, 1973 and made the world a brighter place every day since.

She was a loving daughter, mother, "Nana Nikki," "Lala," sister, and friend. Nikki will be remembered for her strength, resilience, rich humor, and devotion to the people in her life that she treasured. She found such joy in life and motherhood that she opened her heart to anyone who came to her for love, a hug, or even a laugh. She was the hardest working woman her family had ever known, and never ceased to make whatever needed to happen- happen; whether it was digging 7 koi ponds with her late husband and daughter or planting 1000 tree saplings to support his big dreams of a Christmas tree farm in Crenshaw County, Alabama. Her greatest gift was simply being there through life's milestones, challenges, and cherished moments.

Having survived many trials and tribulations in her life, she was beyond humble and immensely grateful for the blessings she held close; the most of which being the family she leaves behind.

She is survived by her daughter Honesty (Chris) Hudgens her son Ken (Erin) Ripley Jr., three beautiful grandchildren, Christian Ripley, Adalynn Ripley, and Josephine Hudgens. Nikki also leaves behind her brothers, Aaron Edelbeck, Kevin Nelson, and Jack Folkerts; her mother, Carolyn Nelson; and her very dear friend, who was more like a second daughter, Sam (Liss) Biafore.

Nikki was preceded in death by her loving husband of 22 years Ken Ripley, her firstborn son, Lee Dale Westra, her grandmother Beck, her father, Larry Folkerts, her "adopted daughter" Kisha Thompson, and a feisty old woman named Ola Richburg who cherished Nikki fiercely with the love that she always deserved.

The family will hold a memorial service and lay Nikki to rest at her husband's side at a later time in San Antonio, TX at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery.

Nikki, in death, wished to give life to others in any way she could. Her lifelong passion of being an organ donor was fulfilled the same morning she left this world. In her final act of generosity and kindness, she left behind a legacy of love and hope to families and friends she didn't even know.