LAIRD, Rickey Charles of Nictaux. With sad hearts we say goodbye to Ricky Charles Laird, age 63, who passed away peacefully from this world with his family by his side in Valley Regional Hospital, Kentville, on Friday, February 5, 2021. Born on April 20 ^th , 1957, in the town of Wolfville, he was predeceased by father, Charles, mother, Verna and youngest brother, Gregory. He is survived by sister, Deborah Veinot (Carl), Nictaux; brother, Wesley, Dartmouth; brother, Gary (Sherry Boutilier), Nictaux; with many nieces and nephews and cousins. Rick had an accident in 1974 that rendered him a quadriplegic. He spent 18 months in rehab after which he moved to Greenwood and open a taxi business that he owned & operated for several years. He moved to Calgary in 1979 to attend Mount Royal College and upon receiving his degree in rehabilitation as a disability counsellor he began his career with the southern Alberta branch of the Canadian Paraplegic Association. He was always a staunch advocate for persons living with disabilities. He sat on many boards and committees devoted to inclusion access and equal rights. A cherish memory of his was giving the keynote speech for the man in motion tour welcoming Rick Hanson to the City of Calgary. He returned home to Nova Scotia opening a medical supply company in the city of Halifax which he owned and operated for several years. In Rick's later life he rekindled his love for art becoming a mouth painter and a member of the Foot and Mouth Painters Association. Rick had a great love for horses and could often be found around the barns, pastures or at the sides of a riding ring. He attended many fairs and exhibitions. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends. Cremation has taken place.  A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Arrangements have been entrusted to Middleton Funeral Home, 398 Main Street, toll free 1-855-825-3448.  Online guestbook maybe signed by visiting: www.middletonfuneralhome.com