Mary Hicks Obituary May 13, 2026
Death Announcement
With deep sadness and heartfelt remembrance, the family of Mary Hicks announces her peaceful passing on May 13, 2026, at the age of 79. Mary passed away surrounded by her loving family in Nashville, Tennessee, after a life devoted to faith, family, and service to others.
Mary Hicks was a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and cherished friend whose warmth, wisdom, and kindness touched countless lives throughout her community. Her passing leaves an immeasurable void in the hearts of family members, friends, neighbors, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Known for her gentle spirit and unwavering compassion, Mary had a remarkable ability to make everyone feel welcomed and cared for. Whether through comforting words, thoughtful acts of kindness, or quiet support during difficult times, she brought light and encouragement to the people around her.
While her family mourns this tremendous loss, they also celebrate a beautiful and meaningful life filled with love, generosity, and lasting memories.
Life & Career
Mary Elizabeth Hicks was born on October 21, 1946, in Knoxville, Tennessee, to Robert and Louise Carter. Raised in a close-knit family grounded in faith and strong values, Mary learned from an early age the importance of kindness, honesty, and caring for others.
As a child, Mary enjoyed reading, helping her mother in the kitchen, and participating in church activities with family and friends. Her caring nature and compassionate heart were evident throughout her life and became defining qualities admired by everyone who knew her.
Mary graduated from Knoxville Central High School in 1964 before pursuing studies in education and office administration. She later built a successful career working in school administration and community support services, where she became known for her professionalism, patience, and dedication.
Throughout her career, Mary worked closely with students, parents, and teachers, always striving to create a positive and supportive environment. Colleagues remember her as dependable, thoughtful, and deeply committed to helping others succeed.
Outside of her professional life, Mary’s greatest joy came from spending time with her family. She loved preparing homemade meals, hosting holiday gatherings, and creating traditions that brought loved ones together year after year.
Mary also enjoyed gardening, quilting, baking, and attending church choir performances. She appreciated life’s simple pleasures and believed strongly in making time for family, friendship, and faith.
A devoted member of her local church, Mary volunteered regularly with food drives, women’s ministry programs, and community outreach efforts. She quietly supported families in need and often gave her time and energy without expecting recognition.
Friends remember Mary as someone who always knew how to make others feel comforted and understood. Her calm presence and encouraging words became a source of strength for many people throughout the years.
In 1967, Mary married Thomas Hicks, beginning a loving partnership built on faith, loyalty, and mutual respect. Together they shared more than fifty years of marriage filled with love, laughter, and cherished family memories before Thomas’s passing in 2019.
Mary’s greatest pride was her family. She devoted herself fully to supporting her children and grandchildren, offering unconditional love, guidance, and encouragement at every stage of their lives.
Family Members
Mary Hicks is survived by her loving children, Rebecca Lawson and husband Daniel Lawson, Michael Hicks and wife Jennifer Hicks, and Sarah Collins and husband Timothy Collins.
She was also a proud grandmother to Emily, Nathan, Olivia, Claire, Benjamin, and Grace, all of whom brought tremendous joy and happiness into her life. Mary treasured every moment spent with her grandchildren, from attending school events to sharing family recipes and stories passed down through generations.
She is additionally survived by her sister, Patricia Allen, along with several nieces, nephews, cousins, church friends, and lifelong companions who will forever cherish her memory.
Mary was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Thomas Hicks, and her parents, Robert and Louise Carter.
To her family, Mary was the heart of every gathering and the source of unwavering love and support that carried them through life’s happiest and most difficult moments alike.
Funeral Details
A celebration of life service honoring Mary Hicks will be held on Monday, May 18, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Grace Fellowship Church in Nashville, Tennessee. Family and friends are invited to attend visitation beginning at 11:00 a.m. prior to the service.
Burial will follow at Oakwood Memorial Gardens.
The family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to local food assistance programs or church outreach ministries in Mary’s memory, reflecting her lifelong commitment to helping others and serving her community.
Friends, neighbors, and loved ones are encouraged to attend and celebrate the remarkable life and enduring legacy of Mary Hicks.
