RICKY JOHN TROTTA, 67, a longtime resident of Bethlehem, Connecticut passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on Tuesday July 21, 2026 in Wilmington, North Carolina. Ricky was born in New Rochelle, New York on May 19, 1959, the son of Edward J. Trotta and Marie (Contrata) Trotta. Ricky graduated from Blessed Sacrament High School in 1977 and Iona College in 1981 with a degree in Business Administration. He shared 30 years of marriage with Michelina (Porto) Trotta whom he is survived by.

"Any better and I'd be in heaven..." Anyone who knew Ricky knew this was one of his favorite sayings—a phrase that reflected his gratitude, humor, and positive outlook on life. Today, those words have taken on their truest meaning. Ricky is finally living them. We find comfort knowing he is at peace, resting, free from pain, and surrounded by God's eternal light.

He was a man known for his kindness, strength, faith, and the genuine way he cared for others. Throughout his life, Ricky faced challenges with courage and dignity. His journey was never the easiest, but he carried himself with a strength and grace that inspired everyone around him. He never let hardship harden his heart. Instead, he lit up every room he walked into—always finding the good in people, always lifting others up.

Above all, Ricky was a devoted family man. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend whose greatest joy came from the people he loved. He enjoyed art, running and spending time with his family. His wisdom, encouragement, laughter, and unconditional love will continue to guide his family and live on through the lives he touched.

Ricky dedicated 21 years of service to Stop & Shop, where his hard work, loyalty, and friendly nature left a lasting impression on those around him. He also found great joy in giving back to his faith community, volunteering as a religious education teacher at his Catholic church. Sharing his faith and guiding young people was something he cherished deeply.

Ricky is survived by his daughters, Vassilissa Trotta and Romina Trotta; his sons, Giovanni Trotta and his wife, Mikayla; Pasquale Tebano and his wife, Sarah; his grandchildren Abel Seymour, Luca Trotta, and Sophia Tebano; his mother, Marie Trotta; his sisters, Andrea Trotta and Jacqueline Flynn and her husband, Kevin; his sister in laws Rosa Porto and family, Concetta Porto and family and Angelina Porto and family, and many extended family and friends. He was predeceased by his father, Edward Trotta; his brother in law, Agostino Porto; his mother in law Maria Porto, and his father in law Antonio Porto.

Ricky’s family wishes to thank the medical team at Novant New Hanover Regional Medical Center for their compassion and kindness.

The family will announce when services will be held.