Joe Louis Hicks' Obituary
Joe Louis Hicks, born June 25, 1935 in Annapolis, Maryland to John L. Hicks, and Mamie Spencer-Hicks departed us on December 30, 2017.
Joe was educated in Annapolis City Public Schools and graduated from Bates High School in 1953. After graduation, Joe worked as a shoe salesman for several years until joined the military.
Joe enlisted in the U.S. Army on December 1, 1959 where he served 4.5 years, until March 6, 1963. During this time, he rose to the rank of Sergeant, was stationed at Fort Jackson, SC., Fort Eustis, VA., and was also deployed overseas to Korea.
Upon his return from duty, Joe began working with his father running "Hicks Upholstery Shop" in Parole Annapolis; which was the second black-owned upholstery shop in Annapolis. Joe continued running this business solo after his father passed away.
Joe's talents in the upholstery shop overflowed into his spiritual life at St. Philip's Episcopal Church in Annapolis Maryland, where he has been a member for well over forty plus years. Using his time and talent, Joe re-upholstered the upper pew cushions, the church alter rails, and he was known as the go-to guy for anything that required repair around the church to include installing clocks and garage door openers. Joe was also an avid collector of time pieces.
Joe further serve the church as part of its Men's Club and Hospitality Club where again, he was willing to serve in any way required including cooking, assisting the food drives, and collecting clothing.
Joe was also selected by St. Phillips as "Father of the Year".
Joe married Yvonne in 1967 and they lived in Parole Annapolis until your mom passed away in August 2017.
Joe leaves to mourn his step-daughter Tawana Nick- William, his sisters Ruby Banner and Vivian Puryear, nieces Kimberly Tinsley- Ausby, Lisa Tinsley- Manley, newphews Keith Banner, and Tony Tinsley.
By his side from beginning to end has been Joe's lifetime friend Gerald A. Matthews, better known as "Dip". Friends Furman and Dorothy Colbert, as well as Wilbur and Joyce Bell from Parole.
What’s your fondest memory of Joe ?
What’s a lesson you learned from Joe ?
Share a story where Joe 's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Joe you’ll never forget.
How did Joe make you smile?
