Nancy Hickman

Nancy "Marie" Pryor Hickman was born on July 9, 1926, in Marshall County, Mississippi, to the late Van Columbus and Lula James Pryor.

At an early age, Nancy accepted Christ as her Savior at Mt. Peel Missionary Baptist Church in Holly Springs, Mississippi. She received her education in the Marshall County School System. In 1951, seeking better opportunities for her children, Nancy relocated to West Des Moines, Iowa. She was later united in marriage to Thomas L. Hickman.

A devoted woman of faith, Nancy served faithfully at Mt. Hebron Missionary Baptist Church under Rev. James Harris, and later at Morning Star Missionary Baptist Church under Rev. Alex C. Crawford, Jr. Her deep love for the Lord was evident in her tireless service. She firmly believed in leaning on God's promises and trusting Him to guide her through life's storms.

Her heart for ministry was shown through her long-standing dedication to the Usher Board and the East Side Missionary Society, where she served for over 50 years. She held the role of president in both organizations, which she considered her pride and joy. Nancy was known for her leadership, commitment, and expectation that others serve with the same dedication to God's work.

Family was the center of Nancy's life. She cherished maintaining strong family connections, believing that love, support, and unity strengthened the family bond. She passed this value down to her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Nancy delighted in her many nieces and nephews and welcomed friends as extended family. Her home was filled with love, laughter, and the aroma of her famous dishes, especially her macaroni and cheese, collard greens, and candied sweet potatoes.

Nancy transitioned from this life on September 16, 2025. She leaves to celebrate her memory: her daughters, Yvonne Warren Burrell of West Des Moines, IA; Zeola Fay Mason and Zola Mae Garrett of Des Moines, IA; and Zelle Kay (Alfred) Coleman of San Jose, CA. Her legacy continues through her grandchildren: Mark (Courtney) Burrell, Marcel Baker, Sonya (Markell) Pierce, Robert Garrett, Michael Mason, Kimberlee Gregory, Clifford Garrett, Tylonda(Orlando)Mason, Tony (Amy) Burrell, Kisha Lovejoy, Tracie Burrell and Tim Rice, and Jermaine Johnson; adopted daughters, Martha Buchanan of Des Moines, IA Julie Collins of Grimes, IA; adopted granddaughter, Marcella Edmonds, of Des Moines, IA; niece, Barbara Jean Pryor of Montgomery, IL; brother-in-law, Stanley (Mary) Warren, Holly Springs, MS. She also leaves behind 22 great-grandchildren and many great-great- grandchildren, along with a host of family and friends whose lives

she deeply touched.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Van Columbus and Lula James Pryor; her husband, Thomas L. Hickman; her daughter, Vernell Warren Hall; her son, George Edward Warren; adopted son, Kenneth Allen Miller; her 12 siblings-Olia, Maria, Steptoria, Emily, Mandie Edith, Bettie, Jessie, Bert, Steven, Percy, Will Thomas, and Van Columbus Jr.-and her special brother-in-law, Sidney Warren.

Not given a middle name at birth, her great granddaughter, Bailey Marie Burrell at an early age chose to share her middle name with her Great Grammie. Nancy "Marie" Pryor Hickman's life was one of faith, family, service, and love. Her legacy will continue to live

on in the hearts of her beloved daughters, grands, great-grandchildren and all who knew her.

Well done my good and faithful servant! Rest in peace!