Life story

"Shirley Jean Hicks, affectionately known as Granny, lived a life as warm and inviting as her famous kitchen, where the aroma of freshly baked goods was a constant. Born in Livingston, New Mexico, on April 21, 1936, Shirley's journey through her 87 years was as rich and fulfilling as the recipes she lovingly passed down. On January 3, 2024, surrounded by the love of her family, Shirley peacefully passed away in Onalaska, Texas, due to natural causes.

Granny's story is a tapestry of love woven through the generations. Her legacy is cherished by her son, Tom Hicks and his wife Katie, her granddaughter Brandy Bebee and her husband Mark, and a delightful procession of great and great-great-grandkids who were the apples of her eye. Shirley's sisters, Rita Atkinson and Sarah, also carry forward the light of her memory. Preceding her in passing were her beloved husband, James Micheal Hicks, her children Amber Hicks, Jennifer Hicks, LaTrica Ivey, and Micheal Ivey, her brother Curtis Atkinson, and her grandson Little Tommy. Each of them held a special place in her heart and is now reunited with her in a place beyond.

Despite the profound loss of her children and other loved ones, Shirley never let sorrow define her. Instead, she became the embodiment of resilience and hope, demonstrating an unwavering spirit that inspired everyone around her. As a dedicated housewife, Shirley poured her life into caring for her family, creating a home that was both a sanctuary and a place of celebration.

Shirley's interests were as diverse as they were passionate. She found joy in the simplicity of fishing, the thrill of a bingo win, and the excitement of a lucky turn at the casino. These activities were not just hobbies but were avenues through which she connected with friends, family, and her community, creating memories that would outlive her.

Above all, Shirley was a beacon of love and generosity. She had an uncanny ability to lift the spirits of those around her and to infuse even the most mundane of days with a sense of purpose and joy. Her faith was the cornerstone of her existence, guiding her through life's storms and serving as an example for all who knew her.

As we reflect on the life of Shirley Jean Hicks, we are reminded of the power of a loving heart and the impact of a generous spirit. Granny's life was a masterclass in the art of living well and loving fully. She taught us that it's not the years in our life that count, but the life in our years. Her story encourages us to cherish the moments, to embrace our loved ones, and to live each day with a faith-filled heart.

To the world, she may have been just one person, but to her family, Shirley was the world. Her laughter, wisdom, and nurturing presence will be profoundly missed, yet her influence will continue to ripple through the lives of those she touched.

Today, as we say farewell to Shirley Jean Hicks, let us not dwell on the sorrow of her departure but celebrate the extraordinary life she lived. Let us carry forward her legacy of love, infusing our days with the same generosity and warmth that she bestowed so freely. In honoring her memory, we recommit ourselves to the values she held dear: family, faith, and the simple joys of life.

Granny's chapter on earth may have concluded, but her story will be told for generations to come. She left us with the ultimate lesson: that a life well-lived is the most beautiful legacy one can leave behind. Shirley Jean Hicks, our beloved Granny, will forever be in our hearts, guiding us with the echo of her indomitable spirit"