Evelyn Mildred Hicks

Evelyn Hicks, Gainesville, age 81, born to Earnest M. and Fairba “Louise” Weeks in Florahome, Florida received her Heavenly Wings on Tuesday, March 6, 2018. After a short illness, she passed peacefully at E.T. York Haven Hospice Care Center in Gainesville surrounded by loved ones. Evelyn joins Lee, her late husband and soul-mate, in Heaven above. Evelyn had her invisible wings here on earth, she was a blessing to many. Her most significant joy in life was her family, especially her grandkids and great grandkids. A few of the most joyous moments used to be family gatherings at “Grandma’s.” You could always walk into the house and smell something delicious she was cooking, or her saying “let me cook you something.” A staple she always had on hand for snacking was watermelon, boiled peanuts and her sweet tea, everything was better at Grandma’s. Whether she was saying “Pumpkin… I see a pretty place to spank…biggety britches…you're getting too big for your britches,” telling her inspiring stories or sharing her many words of wisdom, taking us to Vacation Bible School, encouraging us to attend Church regularly, you knew it was all from deep within her heart. She always had open arms for big hugs, back scratches and many kisses. She had a way of making you feel like you were the most loved, cherished person in the world. Evelyn had a love for bluegrass, gospel and country music. You could hear her singing along with radio all the time with her beautiful voice. A couple days before her passing, her face lite up as she was humming along and bobbing her head to a couple of her favorite bluegrass songs. She loved crossword puzzles, collecting butterfly and angel figurines. She is preceded by her husband, Lee, her parents, Earnest and Louise Weeks, a son, Dan Hicks, a daughter, Esther Hicks, a grandson, Jesus Ricardo "Ricky" Ernst, Jr. and brothers, John Robert Weeks, Edward “Pete” Weeks and Earnest James Weeks. She leaves to cherish her loving memory: a daughter, Cathy Ernst (Gainesville, FL) and her husband Richard; a son, Robert Hicks (Vidalia, GA) and his wife Cindi; a daughter, Linda Sapp (Ocala, FL); a son, Dale Hicks (Lake City, FL.); brother, Milton Weeks (Jacksonville, FL) and his wife Pat; a sister, Louise Redwine (Homerville, GA); a brother, J.H. Weeks (Newberry, FL) and his wife Mary; a sister, Rose Hicks (Melrose, FL.). Eight grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren. Many nieces and nephews. Evelyn was beautiful inside and out with such a peaceful soul; her big heart was always filled with love. Her kindness and selflessness will continue to inspire us all forever. Funeral services will be held Saturday, March 10, 2018 at 11:00 a.m. at Orange Heights Baptist Church, 16700 NE SR26, Hawthorne. Interment will follow in Providence Cemetery, Windsor. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service beginning at 10:00 a.m. For those who wish, donations may be made to Haven Hospice, 4200 NW 90th Blvd. Gainesville, FL 32606.

Evelyn Mildred Hicks

July 24, 1936 - March 6, 2018