Jane Leighton "Tweeda" Hicks

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.

Jane Leighton Wright Goss Hicks, affectionately known as "Tweeda," was born May 18, 1941, to the late Mary Magdalene Henderson and Isham Charley Wright Jr. in Norfolk, VA. Jane spent her formative years split between Norfolk, VA, and Henderson, NC. In addition to her parents, Jane was raised by Susie Henderson, her beloved grandmother. Tweeda started her faith journey at First Church of Christ (Holiness) U.S.A. (COCHUSA) under the late Rev. O. W. McInnis, and yes, that's what most folks at First Church called her. The family could always tell how long someone knew her by whether they addressed her as Jane or Tweeda. She accepted the Lord at First Church and started her relationship with God, which was foundational and guided her throughout her life. While attending First Church, she was active in the youth choir and the youth group.

Jane was a product of both the Norfolk and Henderson public school systems. In Norfolk, she attended John Goode Elementary School and Ruffner Junior High. Jane graduated from Booker T. Washington High School in 1959. This class held the distinction of being the only graduating class in Norfolk due to attempts to prevent integration.

Jane met the late Major Warren J. Goss Sr. while attending Booker T. Washington. Jane and Warren Sr. married in 1962. After she married, she joined her husband in attending Bank Street Memorial Baptist Church. She paused her educational pursuits to marry and raise their three beautiful children, Warren Judge Goss, Jr., Whitney Jayne Goss, and Wendell Jeffrey Goss. Jane and Warren Sr. were married six years when Warren Sr. tragically lost his life during the Vietnam War. She was widowed at the age of 27. Jane remained active in the Church, welcoming visitors, serving as a booster, decorating the church, leading the junior usher board, and participating in pastoral selection committees.

Jane continued her pursuit of higher education later in life, where she received her bachelor's and master's degrees in psychology from Norfolk State University. After receiving her degrees, Jane taught Psychology at Tidewater Community College on a part-time basis and at Elizabeth City State University during the summer. Jane also worked in the Office of Student Affairs for Norfolk State University, where she assisted with recruitment.

Jane was very active in the community. She was a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc., initiated in the Epsilon Theta Chapter in 1976. She was active in Jack and Jill of America Inc. and served as the Norfolk Chapter's President. She participated in the Norfolk State University Alumni Association and was active on both the local and national levels. Jane participated in the Booker T. Washington Alumni Choir, showcasing her beautiful voice. She also served as the librarian and handled communication, notifying members of upcoming activities.

Jane continued her faith journey by participating in the Bible Study Fellowship, an intensive bible study lasting seven years. She served as a greeter during her time there. Jane returned to her roots and rejoined COCHUSA. There she continued to serve by singing in the Senior Choir, working with the United Christian Women Ministries, and under her leadership, the Youth Bible Bowl team won first place.

Jane was given a second chance at love when she connected with her lifelong friend, Edward "Teddy" Robinson Hicks. Teddy and Tweeda grew up in First Church of Christ and were the oldest members in terms of initial membership. You can see the picture of them as a young ring bearer and flower girl, which they called their first marriage. They looked so cute in the picture; they decided to recreate it by getting married in November 2013. Teddy and Tweeda enjoyed almost twelve years together.

Jane joined her heavenly home on Tuesday, October 21st. Jane leaves behind a husband, Edward R. Hicks; a son, Warren Judge Goss, Jr. (Sylvia); a daughter, Whitney Jayne Goss; stepchildren Lisa Hicks-Thomas, Esq. (Sam) and Quentin Hicks; three granddaughters Rachel Goss, Natasha Talley, Ravyn Goss, Esq.; step grandchildren, Carson and Casey Thomas; brothers, Charlie B. Wright and Michael Brookins (Marcia); and sisters-in-law Ola Goss and Velma Hicks Martin. Jane was preceded in death by her youngest son, Wendell Jeffrey Goss.

While Jane will certainly be missed by all who knew and loved her, we take comfort in knowing she's in a far better place. We will remember her strength of purpose, forthrightness, and integrity, and cherish every memory.