Barbara Jeane "Anderson" Hickman

Barbara Jeane (Anderson) Hickman

November 27, 1943 – August 6, 2025

Barbara Jeane Hickman passed away peacefully on August 6, 2025, with her two daughters by her side, after a remarkable 6½ year battle with pancreatic cancer. Her courage, strength, and optimism never wavered.

Barbara was born on November 27, 1943, in Vanport City, Oregon, to Richard A. Anderson and Bernice M. Harksen-Anderson. She grew up in Sweet Home, Oregon, and graduated from Lebanon Union High School. On January 20, 1961, she married the love of her life, Delvin T. Hickman, in Lebanon, Oregon. Together they built a loving home and raised three children.

Barbara's work ethic and commitment to helping others shone throughout her career. She worked at Payless Drug in Albany, the Cornett Store in Lebanon, and Lebanon Medical Center before finding her true calling in real estate. For more than 40 years, Barbara was a trusted real estate broker, guiding countless families through one of the most important decisions of their lives. She retired in December 2018, just before her cancer diagnosis.

Even in the face of her illness, Barbara remained steadfastly positive. In 2023, while still undergoing her own treatments, she lovingly cared for her son Ted during his own battle with cancer. Her devotion to her family and her strength in adversity were extraordinary.

Barbara was vibrant and full of life. She could often be found enjoying time with her beloved horse Chico in her younger years, attending Rollin' Oldies car events, bowling with the Jailbirds league, playing bingo, and doting on her dogs. She was generous-sometimes to a fault-and gave to nearly every cause that touched her heart. After retiring, she found great joy in discussing politics and sharing her opinions with friends and family. But her greatest joy came from time spent with her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who adored her.

Barbara is survived by her daughters Debbie (Jim) Bloom and Valerie (Loren) Kruesi; her five grandchildren Mindy (Cory) Klingenberg, Trisha (Brian) Estes, Cammi Bay, Brian Hickman, and Amy (Dylan) Keyes; her 12 great-grandchildren; and her sister Sandi Dykstra.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Delvin Hickman; her son, Ted Hickman; her parents, Bernice and Richard Anderson; her sister, Sheri; and her brother, Dick.

The family wishes to extend heartfelt thanks to Samaritan Evergreen Hospice House for their compassionate care during Barbara's final days.

A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, August 30, 2025, at 1:00 PM at Santiam Place, 139 Main Street, Lebanon, Oregon. All who loved Barbara are welcome to join in remembering her remarkable life.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Barbara's name to Samaritan Evergreen Hospice House or Safe Haven Humane Society-two causes close to her heart.