Paul E. Hicks

Paul E. Hicks went to be with God on August 28, 2012, at age 91. He was born on August 24, 1921, in Belfast, Arkansas, the fifth child of George Washington Hicks and Blanche Kennedy Hicks. Surviving him are his wife, Margie Hicks; daughter, Barbara Jean Parsons of Yucca Valley, California; brother, Bennie Hicks (Marlene) of Rogers; granddaughters, Katy and Kallie Parsons; stepdaughters, Phyllis Ruyters of Little Rock and Brenda Croya (Jesse) of Georgia; step grandchildren David Gill (Denise) and Jeffrie Gill (Tina), Laura Carlsen; great step grandchildren Kaitlyn and Emily Gill and Ashley and Lindsey Carlsen and James Gill. Paul was preceded in death by his first wife, Betty Hanson Hicks, on April 1, 1990, his brother, Henry Thomas Hicks and sisters Evelyn Hicks, Kathleen Nickell, and Lucille Williams. Paul enlisted in the Navy as a young man, serving his country for six years during WWII. On May 1, 1948, Paul joined the Little Rock Fire Department attaining the rank of Fire Captain. After 20 years of service, he retired on July 3, 1968. He then went to work for Goodwill Industries, where he once again served his community for many years. Paul was an avid outdoorsman and an expert turkey hunter and wildlife woodcarver. He was involved with the National Wild Turkey Federation, serving as President of the Arkansas Chapter in 1970. He participated as a judge in many turkey calling contests, both state and national. His passion for the outdoors was evident, and everyone who met Paul experienced his excitement for nature. He will be missed by many. He was a longstanding member and Deacon of Calvary Baptist Church. Visitation is from 10–11 a.m. on Saturday, September 1, 2012, at Griffin Leggett Healey & Roth with funeral services immediately following conducted by Pastor Ed Simpson with interment at Pinecrest Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Calvary Baptist Church, 5700 Cantrell Road, Little Rock, Ark. 72207. Please send the family messages of love, encouragement and share memories at Paul's online guestbook at www.griffinleggetthealeyroth.com.