Former Employee Spotlight for Black History Month: Vincent Ricks

Vincent M. Ricks, Sr. – Transmission Specialist, ca. early 1970s

For more than a century, Reed Brothers Dodge has been part of the fabric of Montgomery County. Its story is not only about cars, buildings, or advertisements… it is about people. As Black History Month continues, I would like to pause and recognize one of those people whose skill, dedication, and hard work helped shape Reed Brothers Dodge behind the scenes.

One such employee was Vincent Ricks, who worked at Reed Brothers Dodge in the 1970s as a Transmission Specialist and Auto Mechanic. While his work often went unseen by customers, Vince played a critical role in keeping the dealership running smoothly.

Vince was Master Certified in automatic transmissions, a distinction that reflected both his technical skill and the trust placed in him. Day after day, his work ensured that vehicles left the shop safe, reliable, and ready for the road; an essential part of what made Reed Brothers Dodge a trusted name in the community.

Vince Ricks beneath a vehicle on the shop lift, performing transmission work, an essential part of the service department at Reed Brothers Dodge, 1970s.

Those who knew him, remember Vince as calm and soft-spoken, with a subtle, friendly wit. But behind that calm presence was someone the dealership could always count on. Even after retiring, Vince never really left Reed Brothers Dodge. On weekends, he continued working for Reed Brothers part time, and often made trips to car auctions with the owner to help bring pre-owned inventory back for the lot. Vince would drive vehicles back to the dealership, sometimes making more than one run in a single trip. It was just another example of how dependable he was, and how much the dealership still relied on him long after his full-time days in the shop were over. Vince wasn’t just a former employee; he remained a valued part of the Reed Brothers Dodge family.

Vincent Ricks visiting the showroom after retirement, still part of the Reed Brothers Dodge family.

This Black History Month, we honor Vincent Ricks, whose expertise, dedication, and steady presence behind the scenes were a vital part of keeping Reed Brothers Dodge running smoothly for decades.