Aubrey Hickman

Aubrey G. Hickman (90) of Bolivia, N.C. passed away peacefully March 24, 2018, surrounded by family and friends during his final days. Aubrey was born March 2, 1928 in Bolivia, N.C.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Genair and Cecil Lewis Hickman. His wife of 64 years, Alice Thorpe, brother, Jerry Hickman and sister, Eileen Hodge.

Aubrey is survived by his children William Hickman (Mary), Jean H. Yates (Danny), Joy Guin (Mark). His grandchildren Anthony Hickman, Tabitha Knight, Kimberly Carrillo and Chris Simmons. Great grandchildren Cameron and Carly Knight, Daniel Carrillo. Step great grandchildren Christopher Simmons and Bridgett Fryer. His sisters Carla Randolph and Norma Henry. Special family friends, Freya Higgins Desbiolles and Cindy Higgins. He also leaves his beloved dogs, Rosie and Missy.

His law enforcement career spanned over 38 years. Constable for Town Creek Township, Ranger with the Forestry at Orton Plantation, Deputy with the Brunswick County Sheriff Dept, Patrolman and Chief of Long Beach Police Department and Police Chief with the Town of Yaupon Beach. He had stories of being shot, stabbed, robbers, floods, deaths, and even the Oak Island Bridge being knocked out. However, the situations that are closest to Mr. Hickman's heart were the times that he has always tried to help people. No matter what their situation, he wanted to help them resolve their issues rather than arresting them. The extra effort he put in the people themselves paid more rewards for him. Several of those "offenders" came back many years later to locate Mr. Hickman and thank him.

After retirement on January 1, 1994, he moved to Mill Creek and began farming again on the property he grew up on. Growing vegetables and flowers, selling them from the stand that he built. In the past several years, Aubrey began another adventure, working with honey bees and continued to do so until his passing.

In 2015, Mr. Aubrey Hickman received the North Carolina Long Leaf Order of the Pine. Honoring him for his many years of commitment to public service. He was also a lifetime member of the Brunswick County Fraternal Order of Police #053, Brunswick County Beekeepers Association and the NC Beekeepers Association.

He will be truly missed for his smile, kindness to others, sharing with those that needed it, and the friendships he made through life. Mr. Aubrey helped a lot of people; from teenagers in Long Beach to families and friends that just needed to talk. We will all miss stopping by the stand, talking to him, getting honey and vegetables and buying the best collards around. He will forever be our "Collard Man" and our "Chief".

The Memorial service and Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, April 7, 2018 at 2:00 P.M at New Hope Presbyterian Church, 800 Cherrytree Rd NE, Winnabow NC.

The family extends their sincere appreciation for the excellent care that has been given to Aubrey by the caregivers at Liberty Hospice of Supply. Memorial donations may be made to Liberty Hospice, PO Box 200, Supply, NC 28462 or an organization of your choice.

Online condolences may be made at www.peacocknewnamwhite.com.

Peacock –Newnam & White Funeral and Cremation Service.