In the days since Ricky Smith’s death, those who’d been touched by his positive spirit have left flowers, gifts and mementos at a makeshift memorial at the corner of 17th and G streets in Arcata — the same corner where Ricky would stand with his guitar to sing and share his peaceful message with passersby. 

Smith, who spent years living on the streets of Arcata and had recently been sleeping near the foot of the footbridge near his chosen corner, died on the evening of Feb. 2 reportedly following a physical altercation. The Arcata Police Department would quickly arrest Russell Holt in connection with the incident. 

Two months before his death, Ricky had an encounter with a blogger who goes by Hippie in the Woods, who asked Ricky if he would share a bit of his story and worldview. See their exchange below. 

More images from Ricky’s 17th and G memorial below: