Obituary of William Raymond Hicks

William Raymond Hicks passed away peacefully at the Hospice House in Fredericton, NB, surrounded by his loving family on Thursday April 17, 2025 at the age of 87. Bill, as he was known by most, was born on November 10, 1937 in Sackville, NB, son to Raymond and Alice (Anderson) Hicks.

It is impossible to capture a life well lived in a few paragraphs. Everyone who met Bill has a story of how he touched their lives. He was a strong, gentle, honest, and principled man, with a big, warm heart, a playful spirit, and a quick, surprising wit. He treated everyone with kindness and respect.

While in school, Bill was active in sports, playing baseball, basketball, and hockey. At sixteen, he joined the militia and served as a member of the Canadian Army reserves during his education at Mount Allison University in Sackville and Nova Scotia Tech in Halifax, NS. Bill made a career as a civil engineer with the province of New Brunswick’s Department of Transportation, until his retirement in 1992 as Director of Highway Construction.

Bill married his light and love, Marilyn Hovey, on October 19, 1963. They lived in Bathurst, Woodstock, and Fredericton, all while raising a family along the way. Bill and Marilyn were a perfect team, and a shining example of marriage. He was "Dad" to his children, "Papa" to his grandchildren, and so incredibly proud of them all.

Family and friends were everything to Bill. He was very social and active member of his community. As a result, his circle of friends was broad and deep. He loved sports, hunting, fishing, summers at Upper Cape, woodworking and a good game of cards. He was the family historian, documenting genealogy, stories, and memories for all in his family to appreciate. He organized reunions, get-togethers, and had frequent phone calls with extended family and friends far and wide to stay up on news. It was important to Bill to keep everyone connected.

Bill will be sadly missed by his loving wife, Marilyn (Hovey); his children, James (Judy) Hicks, Hoyt, NB; Janet Hicks, Fredericton, NB; Peter (Heather) Hicks, Fredericton, NB; Sharon (Drew) Simpson; ten grandchildren, Katie Hicks, Jelisa Hicks, Cameron (Justin) Dunphy, Benjamin Smith, Clay Smith, Aidan Hicks, Caleb Hicks, Grace Simpson, Sterling Simpson, and Laughlin Simpson; step-grandchildren, Zachary, Kristen, Kyle and Joel; foster daughter, Joanne Brooks; sister, Sandra (Bruce) Barnhill, Sackville, NB; and many nieces and nephews. Bill was predeceased by his sister, Rachel (Lysle) Murray.

Sincerest gratitude is extended by the family to the wonderful staff of Horizon Health, Extramural Care, and Hospice House. Their dedicated and compassionate care gave Bill comfort and peace through his health battles. Thanks also to the Brunswick Street Baptist Church community, and all of Bill's friends who have supported the family.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Bill's memory to Hospice House, New Building Fund - Brunswick Street Baptist Church, and Fredericton Community Kitchen.

A livestream of the service will be available at the following link: https://vimeo.com/event/5081318