803729329.jpg &&& GRACE RICKS was devoted to her nieces and nephews, spoiling them rotten with gifts and homemade pastry, but mostly with her full attention. But her generosity was not confined to her family. "She would give her last dime to help someone in need, whether it was for charitable organizations or a family in need," said her niece Pulcheria Ricks-Poole. "The always dedicated and compassionate sister, aunt, godmother, niece and cousin, there was no limit to Grace's devotion to family and friends. "Grace routinely did do much for others and asked for little or nothing in return." Grace Ricks, a 33-year employee of the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board and a world-traveler, died Nov. 29 of natural causes. She was 76 and lived in West Philadelphia. She was born in Philadelphia to Jonah Catellus Ricks and Nancy Hughes Ricks. She graduated from West Philadelphia High School in 1951. She was baptized at St. Paul's Baptist Church, beginning a lifetime of spiritual endeavor. She worked for a time for Penn Fruit on City Avenue before going with the Liquor Control Board. She retired in 1991, and was then able to enjoy her favorite avocation, traveling the world. She also enjoyed playing pinochle and visiting the Atlantic City casinos, working puzzles and, in her early years, serving as the family photographer. "Grace was a cheerful giver, had an open ear and was a storehouse of history and sage wisdom," her niece said. "You could always count on her to come through in a pinch or to make the good times greater, no matter the distance or circumstances involved. "She was patient and forever kind. She will be forever missed by the little ones in the family, whom she called her children." She is survived by two brothers, Rocellus and Alphonso Ricks. Services: 11 a.m. today at St. Paul's Baptist Church, 10th and Wallace streets. Friends may call at 9:30 a.m. Burial will be in Fernwood Cemetery.