Henri Hicks

(From Parker Mortuary)

Henrietta Lea Hicks, known to many as Henri, Hank, or Henriette, depending on where she was visiting or whom she was with, passed away on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, in Webb City, Missouri, at the age of 88. She was born on December 7, 1937, in Joplin, Missouri, and lived a life marked by kindness, generosity, devotion and steady grace. She was a loving, thoughtful woman who loved to laugh and have fun and whose presence brought comfort, warmth and smiles to those around her.

Henrietta was the daughter of Henry and Mildred (Yocam) Harris and sister of Mary Lou Harbaugh, who preceded her in death. She was also preceded in death by her beloved husband of 35 years, Ronald Hicks, whom she married on April 6, 1957 in Joplin, MO. The bonds of family were deeply important to her throughout her life, and she carried those relationships with care and loyalty in all that she did.

She graduated from Joplin High School Class of 1955 and went on to build a long and respected career. Henrietta started her career at Eagle Picher Technologies as a secretary for a group of engineers. She retired from Inquiry Handling Services (IHS) after more than 25 years where she worked as supervisor of data entry. Her work ethic, dependability and leadership earned the respect of her coworkers and those who knew her professionally.

Henri was also a woman of faith and service. She was a former member of College Heights Christian Church and was a current member of Park Plaza Christian Church. Her Christian faith was an important part of her life, and she expressed that faith through her actions, her compassion and her willingness to help others. For a number of years, she volunteered with Crosslines Ministries, offering her time and energy to support those in need and also served on a number of church programs that were offered through their ministries. She spent many years volunteering in the St. John’s, now Mercy, Hospital Joplin Gift Shop.

She enjoyed traveling, found joy in listening to music and attending theater. These interests brought her happiness and gave her opportunities to experience the world with curiosity and appreciation.

She is survived by one daughter, Rhonda Hicks of Panorama City, California; one son, Douglas Hicks of Mendocino, California; and her granddaughter, Taylor Hicks of Catoosa, Oklahoma. She is also survived by her niece, Becky Lamar and Terry of Seneca, Missouri, and her nephew, Darryl Harbaugh and Annette of Neosho, Missouri. Her family will cherish her memory and the many ways she showed love, strength, and encouragement throughout her life.

Henrietta, Henri, Hank, Henriette or however you knew her, will be remembered with affection by all who knew her. Her life was a testament to faith, family, hard work, and kindness. She leaves behind a legacy of love and thoughtful care that will continue to live on in the hearts of her family and many friends.

A celebration of life service will begin at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, March 31, 2026 at Parker Mortuary with Minister Mark Scott officiating. Following the services at the funeral home, the family would like to invite everyone to join in fellowship with them at Granny Shaffer’s Restaurant located at 2728 N Rangeline RD in Joplin.

In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that donations be made to God’s Resort of Joplin, MO