Nancy Ricker and Jesse Lee Ricker murder: Nancy and Jesse Ricker, Missouri husband and wife died after Lee’s Summit double homicide on 100 block of NE Churchill Street. Lee’s Summit, Missouri, a quiet neighborhood was shaken by tragedy on April 9, 2025, after two victims were found dead by the authorities at a residence in the 100 block of NE Churchill Street. The victims have been identified as 37-year-old Nancy Caroline Ricker and her 39-year-old husband, Jesse Lee Ricker. What began as a death investigation has now been officially classified as a double homicide, according to local law enforcement.
Nancy Ricker and Jesse Lee Ricker death
Authorities were called to the Ricker home late Tuesday evening. Detectives worked through the night, gathering evidence at the scene until nearly 2:00 a.m. The investigation is described as complex, and law enforcement officials say it will require extensive efforts to piece together the events that led to this tragic outcome. However, they confirmed that a person of interest remains in custody, and there is no ongoing threat to the public.
Nancy Caroline Ricker obituary
Nancy Caroline (Schirlls) Ricker was born on December 21, 1987, in Kansas City, Missouri. She was the beloved daughter of Ronald Raymond Schirlls and Shelley Jo (Webb) Schirlls-Hasty. Nancy spent her early years in Pleasant Hill and graduated from Pleasant Hill High School. Known for her ambition and drive, she made the bold decision to serve her country by enlisting in the United States Army shortly after graduation. While in the Army, Nancy married Mark Whitfield, and together they had one son, Gabriel. Though the couple eventually divorced, Nancy continued to be a devoted mother. After her military service, she returned to Missouri with her son, resettling in Pleasant Hill before moving to Lee’s Summit.
Nancy’s passion for healthcare led her to enroll at Availa College, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. During her studies, she worked at Pleasant Hill Health and Rehabilitation Center, gaining valuable experience in patient care. After obtaining her degree, she began working in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at Lee’s Summit Medical Center, a role she excelled in and deeply cherished. Later, she transitioned to the home health care field, where she served as both a caregiver and a healthcare administrator. Her dedication to nursing and her compassionate spirit made her a respected figure among patients and colleagues alike.
Nancy Ricker and Jesse Lee Ricker
On September 25, 2020, Nancy married Jesse Lee Ricker at Life Church of Kansas City. Together, they built a life filled with shared dreams and mutual support. Friends and family described them as a loving, devoted couple who enjoyed spending time together and supporting each other’s endeavors. Jesse was a caring and steady presence in Nancy’s life, known for his strong work ethic and his quiet but steadfast nature. The couple had settled in Lee’s Summit, where they were active members of their community and church.
Lee’s Summit murder, now double homicide
At this time, details regarding the circumstances of the double homicide remain limited, but detectives are working diligently to process all evidence and gather witness accounts. Police have emphasized that while the investigation is still active, the presence of a person of interest in custody suggests the public is not in danger. Authorities have not released the name of the person in custody, nor have they disclosed a potential motive. Updates will be provided as the case unfolds.
Funeral arrangements
A graveside service for Nancy Caroline Ricker will take place on Friday, April 18, 2025, at 2:00 P.M. at Pleasant Hill Cemetery. Pastor Gary Dornbach will officiate the ceremony, where family, friends, and members of the community will gather to remember Nancy’s life, her service to her country, and her contributions to the healthcare field. As the community mourns the tragic and untimely loss of both Nancy and Jesse Ricker, many are left heartbroken, struggling to comprehend how such violence could touch the lives of such kind and devoted individuals. Their story is a painful reminder of how fragile life can be and how deeply loss can impact a community. For now, family, friends, and neighbors come together in grief, holding on to memories and seeking justice for two lives taken too soon.