Audrey Hicks

(From Parker Mortuary)

Audrey Hicks, age 86, of Joplin, passed away on Thursday, November 30, 2023, at National Health Care in Joplin.

Born on January 26, 1937, in Moulton, Arkansas, to the late William and Artie Mae (Garvin) Carpenter, Audrey's life began in a large family as one of fifteen siblings, she grew up and attended school in Arkansas.

Audrey was united in marriage to Earnest Hicks and soon after, in 1969, they moved to Denver, Colorado. Four years later, in 1973, they moved to Fort Worth, Texas, until 1988 when they settled in Joplin to make their home.

Audrey was a faithful member of the Central Christian Church in Joplin, but above all, Audrey was a loving wife, mother, and grandmother. Her devotion to her family was unwavering, always putting the needs of others before her own.

 
Her hands, always busy with the creation of hot plates and coasters crafted from plastic and yarn, were just one of the ways she expressed her creativity and care for others. These handcrafted treasures, made with love, became symbols of her warmth and generosity, cherished by all who received them.

Survivors include her husband, Earnest Hicks, of Joplin; one son, Michael Hicks, of Joplin; three grandchildren, Lela Hicks, of Joplin, Reese Hicks, of Joplin, and Hope Jennings, and her husband, Andrew, of Florence, MS; four great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, Audrey was preceded in death by 14 brothers and sisters; and two children, Jackie Vosey and Dexter Hanks.

Private family services will be held at a later date.

Arrangements are under the personal care and direction of Parker Mortuary, Joplin.