Saltville, Virginia

Rachel Annette Hockett Hericks, age 72, was welcomed into Heaven's embrace on Monday, April 6, 2026.

Rachel was as strong as they came in more ways than one. She spent many years working hard, "slinging rocks" with her strong arms, but even greater than her physical strength was the love she carried for her family, especially her grandchildren, who held a special place in her heart. Her husband, along with the rest of the family, knew better than to make her mad, and as Ponytail often said, that was part of what made everything work so well. Her favorite pastime was giving Ponytail a hard time, always teasing and keeping him on his toes. In her quieter moments, Rachel enjoyed relaxing with some of her favorite shows, including Little House on the Prairie, Gunsmoke, and The Andy Griffith Show. Earlier in life, she was employed with American Furniture, where she dedicated herself to her work just as she did in every aspect of her life. Rachel's strength, love, and unwavering spirit will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to know her, and even more so by those lucky enough to earn her love.

She was preceded in death by her son, David Allen Widener; parents, Oliver and Gladys Henderson Hockett; and brothers, Michael, Cecil, and Kenny Hockett.

Rachael is survived by her husband, David "Ponytail" Hericks; daughter, "Pebbles" Riley and husband, David; brothers, Robert Dale "Bobby" Hockett and Jack Hockett; 3 grandchildren, Dustin Trent, Kenny Rouse, and Josh Rouse; 4 great-grandchildren, Skylar Trent, Payton Doss, Brentley Rouse, and Easton Rouse; and several nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends on Friday, April 10, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Henderson Funeral Home. Funeral services will begin at 7:00 p.m. with Pastor Roger O'Quinn officiating.

Online condolences may be expressed at drhendersonfuneralhome.com. D.R. Henderson Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Rachael Annette Hockett Hericks.