Tribute paid to popular Thanet taxi driver, dad and grandad Ricky Williams

January 5, 2021 Kathy Bailes News 17

Ricky with grandson Kayden (now 6)

Tribute has been paid to a Thanet dad and grandad who was a popular doorman, taxi driver and DJ during his working life.

Ricky Williams, also known as Graham Hazelton, passed away on December 30, aged 66, due to underlying health conditions and covid.

Ricky, who lived in Margate, had two children, Jade and Carl and three grandchildren.

On behalf of the family, Jade said: “Dad lived in Thanet all his life. From a young age he was a very cheeky chap, He was always in some kind of mischief but was also a very smart, handsome young man who wanted to help others.

Ricky aged 18

“His first job was at Tesco Ramsgate as a store man. He was also a DJ at nights, working for Radio Caroline for a couple of years.

“He then started security work on the boats, working for Townsend Thoresen Cross Channel boats, he continued to do security work for around 25 to 30 years where he made friends for life.

“He was always said to be a true gentleman brave and loyal and would go above and beyond to help where possible.”

On the door

Ricky worked at Frank’s nightclub in Margate and many other Thorley Tavern pubs, clubs and bars across the isle before becoming a taxi driver.

With Jade as a baby

Jade said: “He was a real people person and always loved a good chat. People remember his taxi particularly for his loud music and flashing lights. He always had a thing for music from a young age, the louder the better, and one of his hobbies was making his own dance music for radio channels in his spare time.

“He loved and thought the world of his partner Michaela. She brought the light back into his life when needed it most.”

Ricky leaves behind his mum, sister, partner, children and grandchildren. He will be sadly missed by the community as well as his closest family.

Funeral arrangements are still being finalised.

17 Comments

  2. So sad to hear this. We were life long friends, who lost touch in our later years. Glad I saw him last year. Love to the family.

    • Ricky. I was with him 1975, his first night as a doorman, Neros. And it happened to be night of Neros riot. Yes he was loyal, reliable, brave and stoic. Neros booked in a stag party of two 50 seater coaches paid in advance. Only put on two doormen. When it kicked off the police took one look and refused to enter. We just had to do the best we could.

      I am so sad to hear this.
      Love to the family.

  5. Very saddened to hear the loss of a lovely man, thinking of his mum Pat and family at this difficult time
    With love from us all at the olympia cafe in Cliftonville xxx

  8. Remember when he was doorman at franks on 70p a drink Thursday nights .
    Was a great man and a true professional at what he did .
    RIP God Has gained a top man .

  11. So sad to hear, your not forgotten even by friends who haven’t seen you for number of years. We remember you always looking smart,always warm with a smile. Jez,Rob,Steve,Tony.

  14. Remember him well from younger days going to Frank’s regularly;excellent doorman and a friendly,interesting person to talk with.

  15. RIP Graham ..not seen you for years, met you aged 14 you were always lovely to me ..u are deffo in heaven see u there one day. Such sad news 😢

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