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Virginia Tech

Zenobia Hikes Obituary

Zenobia Hikes, Virginia Tech's vice president for student affairs, died Monday, Oct. 27, 2008. She was 53.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Roanoke Times from Oct. 28 to Nov. 28, 2008.

Memories and Condolences
for Zenobia Hikes

71 Entries

August 27, 2010

I recently graduated with my PhD. in Psychology! I wish I could share this accomplishment with you. You inspired me, motivated me, and taught me to expect great things for my life. I will never forget my "obligation to be great," and the way you touched my life. I miss you and love you...

-Dr. Caldwell

July 17, 2009

July 17, 2009
I am truly crushed to hear that you have passed. I heard of it purely accidently. I cannot hold back the tears as the years and the memories roll through my mind. You'll always live within me, for what we shared and the impact you had on me is immortal. You always lifted me. Thanks for sharing a part of your life with me;you'll always be as much a part of me as the very air I breathe. I love you.

Chuck Fisher, LSUS 1986-1990, 1990-1992

Linda Martinak

April 13, 2009

I am deeply saddened to learn of Zenobia's passing. She was a dear classmate of mine at University of Delaware where we were in the doctoral program together. A visionary leader, she will be missed by all of us who gained so much by her presence in our classes.

KIMBERLY GOWIN

February 2, 2009

OUR DEEPEST SYMPATHY YOUR LOVING AUNT KIMBERLY HIKES GOWIN

Dr. Lisa Pertillar Brevard

November 23, 2008

I am so saddened to hear of the loss of Dr. Hikes, whom I had the pleasure of meeting in Roanoke, during a gathering of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority sisters. May her legacy of caring be a lesson for us all.

Dr. Valarie Swain-Cade McCoullum

November 13, 2008

I am absolutely stunned at this premature loss of a fabulous colleague and passionate student advocate. My, and our, hearts go out to Amber and other family members. With sadness and abiding respect...

Franchesca Tennille Harper

November 10, 2008

My thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends and associates of Dr. Hikes. I worked with Dr. Hikes while she served as Vice President of Student Affairs at Spelman. Dr. Hikes left an unforgettable impression on the lives of everyone she met and her influence as a student affairs professional will forever be remembered.

Soror Monica Callaway, Delta Sigma Theta

November 10, 2008

I am truly sorry for your loss. Dr. Hikes will be terribly missed by the entire community.

Joylene P. Crowther

November 6, 2008

Dr. Hikes has been a positive influence in my life. I worked for Dr. Hikes during her tenure at Spelman College. She has left a tremendous impression on me. Her love for her craft and her professionalism has inspired me. I have enjoyed many conversations with her. I will truly miss her. What a Phenomenal woman indeed. My thoughts and prayers are with her family.

Joylene P. Crowther
Spelman College - C' 2003

November 4, 2008

Please accept my deepest condolences in the passing of Dr. Zenobia Hikes. I first met Zenobia when we were floormates as freshmen in Abby Hall at Spelman College in 1973. She later became my line sister as we pledged our beloved sorority Delta Sigma Theta on the line of the Tenacious 23. The years have passed between us and we would normally only see each other at our class reunions. She did not attend in 2007 because she was dedicated to helping her students at Virginia Tech get through the terrible ordeal that they were going through. That's the kind of person that I remember and the kind of person that God has called to be a beautiful flower in his garden. Please know that my prayers are with you and your family and remember that Earth has no sorrow that heaven cannot heal.

Charlsia Gwynn Brown
Spelman Class of 1977

Soror Bonnie Pritchett

November 3, 2008

My prayers and thoughts are with your family at this time. God has come to get the love one that he loaned you for 53 years short years to love. Her mission on this earth has ended and she's gone to higher skies to get her reward for a job "well done" down here for these people. God Bless and continue to serve GOD. Rest In Peace -Soror Zenobia. Love from Soror Bonnie Pritchett-Roanoke Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

Fannie Roberts

November 3, 2008

Fannie M. Parker Roberts

Patricia Kirby

November 3, 2008

My thoughts and prayer goes out to the family. The life that Zenobia lived spoke for her. The love and care that she showed to others, left and impact on the hearts of her university family and the Blacksburg community. Zenobia has the resurrection hope that the Bible promises at Act 24:15 before her. And we all look forward to seeing her at that time.

JANET & ROBERT Stallard

November 1, 2008

What a wonderful,wonderful lady.
Those great words you gave all us for the 4-16 horrible day.
You were very loved thru out Blacksburg and the surrounding communities. You will be missed but never will be forgotten.
God Bless you, rest in peace and thank you for what you did for all us HOKIES !
And to the Family you are in our thoughts and prayers.

Audrey Robinson

November 1, 2008

To the Family of Dr. Hikes,

I will truly miss Dr. Hikes smiling face and generous, caring attitude that she always carried with her. The joy that she gave to others. I truly admired her and looked to her as a role model. She exemplied the motto of Virginia Tech "Ut Prosim" that I may serve. You have made your mark on Virignia Tech and we will never forget what you've done during April 16th and on. Words are haard to express as we have lost a treasure in higher education. I pray the God will continue to watch over your daughters and family. Know that you are loved!
Audrey Robinson
PhD Candidate
School of Education

Sandra Stiner Lowe

November 1, 2008

I will truly miss seeing and observing how Zenobia Hikes was abundantly and naturally disposed toward kindness. This trait brought out the very best in those that were in contact with her. My prayers and sympathy are extended to her daughters whom she loved dearly as well as her entire family.

Scott Russell

October 31, 2008

You were one of the most amazing and inspiring leaders I've ever had the privilege to work along side of. I pray your energy and gifts will live on in the lives of everyone you touched. Rest in peace. Your race is run.

Brenda Harrison

October 30, 2008

I am deeply saddened to hear about the loss of such an amazing woman, Dr. Zenobia Hikes. I had the awesome opportunity to work under the umbrella of the Student Development Department at Spelman College when Dr. Hikes was there. She was truly a woman of excellence. I am so honored to have had the opportunity to present at the WEL retreat for two years and to sit down and have dinner with her and glean from the wisdom that she imparted. Dr. Hikes will never be forgotten. She has made an indelible impression in my life. I will continue to pray for her daughters, sisters and mother. God bless.

Ricardo Boulware

October 30, 2008

To the Hikes Family:
A Hokie at heart, Dr. Hikes was convinced that orange and maroon actually matched! I was amazed at all the opportunities that she offered me as a freshman student. Her passion was Student Affairs and being the number one resource for students was evident. Her power and energy was lively and they carried for miles. Her motivational speeches and uplifting words kept me going every single day. Dr. Hikes is my role model and I promise to make people known of who she was and who she fell short from being. Dr. Hikes always had a smile on her face, she never frowned! She was clean, collected and strong; Dr. Hikes never missed a beat. She played her game well and always won! She is definitely number one in my book. In her short time here at Virginia Tech, her numerous contributions spoke volumes and impacted many. Her hands touched the lives of many, mine included. She had a purpose and a reason for being here. Service was her middle name and she lived beyond that expectation! I will never forget seeing Dr. Hikes bolting across campus in her clean suits and bright white tennis shoes. She definitely was on the move and had a unique style. I loved her beautiful, bright and pearly white smile and gregarious personality. Thank you for everything you have done for me Dr. Hikes. Trust, truth and in fact, your legacy will live on forever and I dedicate to do my part in your honor. Keep that shining star smile Dr. Hikes. That is my pathway to success. May you rest in peace.

Through dedication, spirit, love and joy

Ricardo Boulware

Charrisse Crosby-Thomas

October 30, 2008

I met Dr. Hikes when my daughter attended "Spelbound" for newly accepted students at Spelman College in 2005. She spoke to the parents about the advantages of young women attending Spelman College. I was very impressed with her speech and it was one of the reasons why my daughter attends Spelman College. I followed Dr. Hikes career at Virgina Tech after she left Spelman College and often spoke of her to my daughter. Dr. Hikes obtained many great accomplishments professionally and will be sorely missed. My prayers are with her family at this time.

Mother of Tenaea Thomas '09, Spelman College

October 30, 2008

I will never forget her speech at orientation in July 2007. She was such an inspiraton and enjoyment! I never personally met her, but after that speech and hearing of her whereabouts on campus, I definitely was an admirer of who she was. My thoughts and prayers are with her family especially as they endure their loss and live on to leave a mark like their loved one. I am also praying for her coworkers and an others affected.

Jackquelette Shepherd

October 30, 2008

To the Hikes family, Sorry for your loss. May God bless you
and your family.

Jan Payne-Kirkland

October 30, 2008

To the family of Dr. Zenobia L. Hikes, we the class of 1973 will miss her and will always remember her to be the most likely to become sucessful in life. May the God of peace comfort the entire family during their loss.

Bonnie Akers

October 30, 2008

my memories of Dr. Hikes I'll keep in my heart always for the time she worked with us in uusa. God be with you now and always love and prayers

October 30, 2008

Please accept my heartfelt sympathy for your loss. Cherish your wonderful memories. The love and support of family, friends and neighbors will be with you as you celebrate the life and legacy of Zenobia Hikes. May you draw comfort from the scriptures - 2nd Corint. 1:3 & 4 - "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of tender mercies and the God of all comfort who comforts us in all our tribulaton, that we may be able to comfort those in any sort of tribulation through the comfort with which we ourselves are being comforted by God." You are in the thoughts and prayers of many.

Katrina Evans-Dobbs

October 29, 2008

My deepest sympathy goes out to my Beloved Spelman Sister, Dr. Hikes. We love you and will miss you.

Fred Warner

October 29, 2008

Your loss is our loss. She will be missed by so many who loved her.

Peggy Warner

October 29, 2008

Although words cannot begin to ease the sorrow of your loss, please know that your family and loved ones are in the prayers of so many who cares and grieves with you .

Zakia Johnson

October 29, 2008

Dr. Zenobia Hikes is an amazing inspiration to many and she was definitely one to me! I had the pleasure of having her as a professional mentor--she has an amazing zest for life and truly has a passion for the success of all students. She will be dearly missed and I pray that her family has peace during this difficult time.
Peace and Blessings,

Linda Harris

October 29, 2008

To the Hikes family: Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time and in the days to follow. (Linyaes' Hair Design)

Michelle Foster-Turner

October 29, 2008

I had only met Zenobia a couple of times but her beautiful smile and obvious warmth and love for others will stay with me for a long time. My deapest sympathy to her family and to Virginia Tech for losing such an inspirational woman. neighbor and friend

Victor Etilo

October 29, 2008

May your soul rest in perfect peace with the Lord. We'll miss you dearly.

Andrea Langston

October 29, 2008

My sincerest sympathies to family and close friends of Zenobia Hikes. I hope that you find peace and comfort as you navigate this difficult time of loss and mourning. The Virginia Tech Nation has lost a talented leader, a strong voice, and a compassionate soul.

Randy Mitchell

October 29, 2008

Zenobia was the keynote speaker at the Student Success in Virginia conference, held at James Madison University just over one year ago. She moved, inspired, enlightened, and educated all of us that day. It was a pleasure working with her, getting to know her, and learning from her. We at JMU join Virginia Tech in mourning her passage.

Amanda Miller

October 29, 2008

Sorry for the loss. May god be with you and your family always.

Amanda Mitchell

October 29, 2008

I had the pleasure of meeting Dr. Hikes my first semester at Tech, which was her first one too. She spoke to a very young freshmen group in the fall about bridging our leadership gap from high school into college. It's just one of the many ways she touched students on this campus and is something I'll never forget. She was a great inspiration and guiding light for us future leaders and valued her wisdom. Rest in peace and God Bless.

Stacey

October 29, 2008

To the Hikes Family you have our Deepest Sympathy. From the Shinholster, Abel, Blake, Families.

C. Reid

October 29, 2008

Thank you, Zenobia, for your service and everlasting care for the Hokie Nation.

Donna Brown

October 29, 2008

To Zanobia's family. I am deeply sorry for your loss. I had the Honor of doing Zanobia's hair for a year and a half. She was such a positve person in my life. We shared so many laughs together in the salon in the evenings when she got off work. I am going to miss her a lot. May God be with you and your family. (Chamar Gallery of Hair Design)

C. Coles Casey

October 29, 2008

Her life was an instrument of peace and unity in the lives of many, including many in our congregation. We appreciated her visits to First Baptist Church Radford. Our congregation will remember to pray for the family and many friends. How can we not thank God for such a life as Zenobia Hikes.

Philippians 4:7

APRIL REED

October 29, 2008

i've never personally met Zenobia,but she sounds like a wonderful lady that touched every life she came in contact with.my thought & prayers are with her family & all the people whom knew & loved her

October 29, 2008

I feel so much sadness as I reflect on the passing of this gifted human being. God bless her children. May they know of the wonderful gifts their mother gave to so many.

Cynthia Blankenship

October 29, 2008

I was deeply saddened by the news of the untimely passing of Dr. Zenobia Hikes. I had attended orientation the summer of 2007 with my son and was extremely moved by her speech that day. Her enthusiasm and dedication to the students was clearly evident, and I was especially grateful for her support of the Corps of Cadets. My sincere condolences to her family, she was an outstanding leader at Virginia Tech.

Ranjana Chachra

October 29, 2008

Zenobia was a fun loving and friendly person, filled with positive energy. I will miss her laughter at Va Tech gatherings.
It was this past April, she stood beside me as we remembered the victims of April 16, 2007. We cried together and embraced each other as we mourned the loss of the many innocent lives of April sixteenth. She will be missed in our community, at Va Tech and Christ Episcopal Church.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Amber, Brittany and other relatives.
With sympathy,
Ranjana

October 29, 2008

I loved her smile which was contagious and left you with a good feeling. Her professionalism most amazed me. I will truly miss her.

SILVERINE JACKSON

October 29, 2008

GOD BLESS YOU ZENOBIA, YOU ARE A CREDIT TO ALL WOMEN, AND GOD HAS ALLOW YOU TO FLY SO HIGH, NOW YOURE FLYING WITH THE ANGELS, RESTING IN GOD'S LOVING ARMS. MAY THE PEACE OF THE LORD BE WITH YOU.

Michele James-Deramo

October 29, 2008

I was so delighted when Zenobia was appointed as Vice President for Student Affairs. She was a very important figure in our university. We all will miss her leadership, and mourn the lost potential. My sympathies to her family and her staff.

andrew hansbrough

October 29, 2008

Farewell to a wonderful person who made all of us hold our heads a little bit higher to see the light during our darkest hours. May you rest in peace- you will always be in the hearts of Hokies everywhere.

Herb Fischer BS63

October 29, 2008

Thank you for what you did for VaTech.

Gloria Hoover

October 29, 2008

During the month of July 2008, my son and I attended his orientation at Virginia Tech and had the pleasure of meeting Dr. Hikes. She was amazing! Her wonderful smile expressed her love for Virginia Tech and her job. Virginia Tech has lost a dedicated Hokie and the Hokie Nation is incredibly sad. My family and I send out our thoughts and prayers for her family.

Terry Doss

October 29, 2008

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well-lived.

Godfrey Pereira, 2000

October 29, 2008

This is a great loss to the University. Rest in peace and we shouldn't forget her hard work and committment to the University.

Cal Beasley

October 28, 2008

I had the privilege of meeting Dr. Hikes last year while helping lead a leadership conference on campus. She was truly one of the most amazing people I have ever met. The University has lost a great leader. My sympathy goes out to her family and the entire University community.

Lolly Miller

October 28, 2008

When my daughter came to campus in April, 2006 to decide about enrollment it was Dr. Hikes who fired me up! She made me want to sign up to be a student again! By July of 2007 I told her I wanted to start a Zenobia Hikes fan club. She stated that there would only be 3 members- her 2 daughters and myself. I begged to differ, but told her they could serve as President and V.P. and that I would be secretary/treasurer. This is a lady I will never forget! Sending sympathy to all of her family. Keep her spirit alive!

Chris Gravely

October 28, 2008

RIP Dr. Hikes. You were an inspiration to us all..

Fay M Butler

October 28, 2008

To the Hikes Family and the Virginia Tech Community, my condolences and you are in my prayers. I met Dr. Hikes in the mid 1990's at a conference at Hampton University. She was a great Mentor and an example for African American Women in Higher Education.
Dr. Fay M. Butler City University of New York

Beverly Bishop Sherry Spencer

October 28, 2008

Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.

April Brunk

October 28, 2008

Ive had the pleasure of meeting Ms. Hikes...She is a very compassionate well rounded individual. She will be missed.

Eric Crowder

October 28, 2008

prayers for her loved ones and the vt community following the heartwrenching news

Manuel Evia

October 28, 2008

My most sincere condolences to Dr. Hikes family. Hope the Lord help to relieve your pain.

Rhonda Rogers

October 28, 2008

To the Hikes Family:
My condolences go out to the family. Please know that you are in the thoughts and prayers of many here at the University and throughout the New River Valley. Dr. Hikes was an inspiration to many. Her leadership, enthusiasm, and dedication to the Division of Student Affairs and to the entire Virginia Tech community will be missed.

Ginger Evans

October 28, 2008

Zenobia was a very special person Tech was blessed to employ. She will be greatly missed by students, staff, and town folks who called her our friend. Our hearts go out to her daughters.

Rhonda Bishton

October 28, 2008

I remember Dr. Hikes' speaking at our daughter's orientation in summer 2006, I so enjoyed her speech. Her enthusiasm and energy were felt all through the Squires Ballroom. I know the VT Family will miss her. God's blessings to her family and our sympathies. Bishton Family

Y. Sientje Henderson

October 28, 2008

To: The family of Dr. Hikes. "Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, love leaves a memory no one can steal."

Diann Diaz

October 28, 2008

Dr. Zenobia Hikes was truly an inspiration to me, as I am sure to anyone that met her. I was blessed to have had her in my life, and will be forever grateful for the time we spent together. My deepest sympathy to her family.

Gail Ladson

October 28, 2008

I would like to express my condolences to Dr. Zenobia Hikes' family and friends. She was truly a wonderful and approachable person to her students, staff, and colleagues. She will be greatly missed.

Susan Nessler

October 28, 2008

So sorry to hear about Dr. Hikes's untimely passing. She was a person of class, dignity, and warmth and will be greatly missed.

Debbie Falls

October 28, 2008

Our thoughts and prayers are with the family. She was a wonderful lady.

Mohammad J

October 28, 2008

I will always remember the way she handled the events of 4/16 in a professional, calm and collected manner.

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