Willie J. Hicks

Willie James Hicks, affectionately known to family and friends as “Willie J,” was born on September 5, 1945, to the late Allen Jasper “A.J.” Hicks and Bernice Knox Hicks. His life began in the Arkansas Delta, where family, faith, hard work, and community became the foundation of the man he would become. On Saturday, September 5, 2026, the same date on which his earthly journey began 81 years earlier, Willie J transitioned from this earthly life into eternity. He leaves behind cherished memories and family connections that will continue to live in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. Willie J. gave his life to Christ at an early age at Gumwood Missionary Baptist Church in Ratio, Arkansas, under the leadership of Pastor P.L. Perkins. He later continued his Christian journey at Brooks Chapel under the leadership of Reverend Artie James. Throughout the years, his faith remained an important part of his life and the foundation upon which he was raised. Willie J. worked as a farmhand throughout Ratio and Lambrook, Arkansas, and continued working faithfully until his retirement. Willie J. was preceded in death by his parents; Allen Jasper “A.J.” Hicks and Bernice Knox Hicks, his wife; Fay Etta Harris, two brothers; Larry Hicks, Sr., Donald Lee Hicks, and a great grandson; Emiko O\'Bryant. He leaves to cherish his memory five children; Toni Harris, Jennifer Hunt, Sandra “DeeDee” Jefferson, Cindy “Lisa” Moody, and Willie B. Moody. He also leaves to cherish his memory two sisters; Jessie Hicks Toney (Carl) of Southaven, Mississippi, Rose Hicks of Milwaukee, Wisconsin; three sisters-in-law; Bonnie Mae Hicks of Lexa, Arkansas, Carolyn Hicks, Debra Hicks both of Helena-West Helena, Arkansas, and his grandson; Tyrone “Lil Man” Jackson, Jr. Willie J. also leaves a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, friends, and loved ones. Each carries a different memory, a different story, and a special part of the life they shared with him. As his family says goodbye, they do so with gratitude for the years they were given with Willie J. His earthly journey has come to an end, but his story does not end here. It continues through his children and family, through memories shared at family gatherings, through stories that will be told for generations, and in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.