With deep admiration for a life well-lived, we honor the memory of Jo Anne Hicks, who departed this world on August 7, 2026. Born on July 20, 1943, in Lexington, Tennessee, Jo Anne’s journey was marked by kindness, resilience, and enduring devotion to her family.

From her earliest days in Lexington, Jo Anne cultivated a spirit of generosity and an unwavering sense of duty. She charted a course through life defined by commitment and care, both for her loved ones and her community. Jo Anne devoted her working years first to Wormser, where her meticulous attention to detail found purpose as she inspected clothing, ensuring quality and integrity—a standard she applied in every aspect of her life. Later, she extended her warm and approachable nature as a customer service representative for Sears, where she earned the respect of colleagues and customers alike, always greeting challenge with patience and a gracious heart.

Jo Anne’s greatest legacy lies in the loving family she nurtured and the bonds she cherished. She is survived by her four beloved daughters: Darlene Hicks, Jacqueline Walker, Melissa Jo Neal (Doug), and Angela Eubanks (Bobby). Each carries forward her remarkable strength, compassionate spirit, and commitment to those she loved. Jo Anne took great pride in her family, and she treasured the time she spent with her six grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren. These daughters and grandchildren were the truest treasures in Jo Anne’s life, a testament to her deep, abiding love.

While Jo Anne’s presence has been a guiding light to those she leaves behind, she also mourned the loss of treasured family members during her years. She was preceded in death by her devoted husband, Bobby Hicks, whose memory she held dear. She joined in eternal rest her parents, James Odeen Todd and Bonnie Smith Todd; her brothers, James Rush Todd, Kenny Todd, and Dennis Todd; and her sisters, Liz Fry, Wanda Ernest, and Donna Todd. Their reunification now brings peace and comfort; the threads of family woven again in love.

The passing of Jo Anne Hicks signals not only the end of a luminous chapter but also the persevering influence of her virtues. Her warmth, steadfastness, and quiet dignity are lessons imparted to all who had the privilege to know her. Her story lives on in each embrace between mother and daughter, in commitment to one’s craft, and in the simple acts of kindness sown daily.

To celebrate Jo Anne’s life and legacy, visitation will take place at Bodkin Funeral Home, located at 2000 South 1st, Milan, TN 38358, on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM. A funeral service will follow at the same location from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, offering an opportunity for family and friends to gather, reflect, and honor the gentle soul who brought joy and meaning to so many. Burial will follow in the Independence Cemetery near Lexington.