Rita Hamilton Hicks

Rita Frances Hamilton Hicks, of Prattsville, Arkansas was born December 5, 1939, and entered Heaven's gates on July 18, 2015. Rita Frances was a beloved anchor to her family and faithful friends. She loved family dinners, working in her garden, playing piano, and spoiling her grandchildren with heartfelt advice and homemade chocolate milk. As a teacher and counselor, Rita Frances spent many years making differences in the lives of members of her hometown communities of Prattsville, Malvern, and beyond with a witty sense of humor, soft-spoken words and encouraging spirit. Rita Frances had an unwavering faith in God, and was a devoted member of Harmony Missionary Baptist Church in Prattsville, Arkansas. Rita was predeceased by her loving parents, Herman Hamilton and Virgie Pumphrey Hamilton. She is survived by three adoring children, daughter, Ginger Cate and husband Rickey, daughter, Sherry Beard and husband Joe and son, Chip Huey Hicks. She is also survived by a loving sister, Mary Burhenn and husband Ted, devoted family member John Huey Hicks and faithful sister-in-law, Rita Hicks Roberts. Rita Frances (Nanny, Granny, Grady) is loved and survived by 16 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be 3 p.m. Tuesday, July 21, 2015 at Harmony Missionary Baptist Church with Bro. Paul Roberts and Bro. Neal Pumphrey officiating. Visitation will be prior to the service from 2:00 until 3:00 at the church. Burial will follow at Philadelphia Cemetery in Prattsville. Memorials may be made to Harmony Missionary Baptist Church, P.O. Box 37, Prattsville, Arkansas 72129. Arrangements by Memorial Gardens Funeral Home of Sheridan (870) 942-1306. To sign the online guestbook, www.memorialgardenssheridan.com.