Marilyn Hicks

Marilyn Hicks, 91, passed away peacefully on February 5, 2026, leaving behind a legacy. She was the heart of her home and a constant source of wisdom and warmth for those who knew her. For Marilyn, faith was not just a practice, but her foundation. Nothing brought a brighter smile to her face than looking down a church pew and seeing her children and grandchildren sitting beside her. She led by example, showing her family that a life rooted in faith was a life full of purpose. Alongside her beloved husband, Marilyn embraced the beauty of the world with open arms. Together, they traveled to 48 of the 50 United States, capturing a lifetime of horizons. These weren't just trips for two; Marilyn’s heart was at its fullest when her children, grandchildren, or great-grandchildren were tucked into the car or camper along with them, turning every mile into a shared family memory. To know Marilyn was to know her rhythm. She lived life with the energy of a "jitterbug," her favorite dance and a true reflection of her spirit. She was a tireless teacher on the dance floor, never missing an opportunity to pull a family member aside and show them the steps—ensuring she always had a partner and that her family always knew how to find the fun in life. Above all, Marilyn was the ultimate caregiver. As a wife, mother, grandmother, and sister, she moved through the world with a servant’s heart, quietly ensuring that the needs of her family were met before her own. She was the steady hand and the dancing soul of the Hicks family, and her influence will be felt for generations to come. She was born on August 30, 1934, in Tell City, Indiana to the late Ferdinand “Fred” and Theresa (Olberding) Lehman. A proud graduate of Central High School, Marilyn’s journey through life was truly defined by the people she loved. On June 16, 1951, she married the love of her life, Martin, beginning a 61-year adventure. Marilyn was a familiar, friendly face to countless students within the Evansville Vanderburgh School Corporation, where she served in the cafeteria until her retirement in 2000. She is survived by her children, Marty Hicks (Cheryl), Julie Smock (Steve) and Jayce Hicks. She had 12 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, and 4 great-great grandchildren. She also has many other nieces and nephews who loved her dearly and whose lives she impacted forever. She was preceded in death by her husband, Martin Hicks, her sister, Joyce Clapper, and both of her parents. Funeral services for Marilyn will be held at 10:00 AM on Friday, February 13, 2026, at Pierre Funeral Home, Rev. Jeff Ruggles officiating. Burial will follow in Tupman Cemetery. Friends may visit with the family from 3:00 until 7:00 PM on Thursday at Pierre Funeral Home, 2601 W. Franklin Street. Special thanks to nurses Payton and Angie and the rest of the care team at Gentiva Hospice for the special care, attention, and support provided. Memorial contributions may be made to Forest Hills Wesleyan Church.

Marilyn Hicks

August 30, 1934 - February 5, 2026