Bob was born in a Duck Springs cabin early Christmas morning to Zera Thrasher Hicks and Luther Hicks, who died before his youngest son's birth. His servant's heart was apparent from an early age and joyful service became a way of life.
As a youngster, he took a paper route, adding work at the local grocery store while attending Etowah High School. After graduation, Bob joined the Army, serving as a specialist fourth class at a U.S. base in Korea where his unit sponsored an orphanage. On returning home, he joined Republic Steel Corporation, beginning a 30-year career, starting in production planning, also serving as secretary/treasurer of the clerical union, and later becoming a supervisor in the transportation department. Education was not forgotten; Bob earned an associate of science degree from Gadsden State Community College by attending night classes.
As a community servant, Bob had a long list of credits, including memberships on the Gadsden Beautification Board, Gadsden Music Club, the Gadsden Symphony Orchestra Board, the Zoning and Board of Adjustments, and the Big Brothers Big Sisters Board and mentor. Named "1985 Lion of the Year" by the Gadsden Lions Club, Bob served through the years by holding every local office. He also served the Lions as zone chairman, vice district governor, and district governor in which he served 35 local Lions Clubs, helping provide vision services and eyesight preservation to people of all ages.
Always interested in supporting his children's education, Bob served his sons' schools, Eura Brown Elementary, Disque Middle School, and Gadsden High School, as PTA President. During this time, he also enjoyed representing area McDonald's as Ronald at public events, such as the Gadsden Christmas Parade. For 35 years, he co-owned and managed Putt-Putt Carpet Golf because "he wanted young people to have wholesome recreation." Boating, fishing, and a game of cards were among his favorite leisure activities.
He served Trinity Lutheran Church as trustee, elder, secretary, vice president, and president, always ready to assume whatever task was at hand.
Bob leaves behind his adoring wife of 61 years, Judith Hooker Hicks. His sons are both of Gadsden: John Robert Hicks (Ramona) and Charles David Hicks (Jodie). Also surviving him are seven grandchildren, one great-grandchild, and brother-in-law John Charles Hooker (Kay). His brothers, William Herbert, Clyde, and Ray Hicks preceded him in death.
Bob's boisterous, friendly, and engaging presence will be sorely missed.
During these last years, it has been evident that Bob's exceptional caregivers at McGuffey Health Care have something in common with Bob; they are motivated to serve by love.
A memorial service will be held at Trinity Lutheran Church on Saturday, April 22, 2023 at 1:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Trinity Lutheran Church – 1885 Rainbow Drive, Gadsden, AL 35901, Etowah County Lions Eye Clinic - 95 Heritage Drive, Springville, AL 35146, or your charity of choice.