Wanda Elaine Hicks

Wanda Elaine Hicks, passed away peacefully on February 18, 2025, exactly 102 1/2. Born on August 18, 1922, in Lawrence, Kansas, the daughter of Lawrence and Ruby (Woodward) Martin. She graduated from Topeka High School.

Following high school, she married Dale Dean Hicks on February 14, 1947 in Topeka, KS. They welcomed two children, Lana and John, into their union of marriage.

Wanda's career was marked by dedication and resilience, having worked for the Santa Fe Railroad and later for John Hoffer Chrysler and Plymouth, where she continued to serve until retirement at the age of 86.

Wanda was a faithful member of the First Southern Baptist Church, where her faith and commitment enriched the lives of those around her. She was also an active participant in the Topeka Moose Lodge.

With a heart full of love, Wanda adored collecting Cabbage Patch dolls and birdhouses, and often spent hours watching the birds flit about. She enjoyed cheering on her favorite team, the Kansas City Chiefs, especially #87. Her garden was a vibrant reflection of her spirit, enjoying irises and sunflowers. She found joy in baking pies, sewing doll clothes, and quilting, a hobby she shared with her mother, weaving fabric and love into every stitch. Her passion for animals was evident in her love for her cats and dogs, each one a cherished companion. She proudly supported and encouraged her great granddaughter, Celana, through 13 years of dancing. Wanda traveled to many places but especially enjoyed her travels to Italy and Ireland. She loved to create picture books to remember her cherished life events and travels. 

Wanda leaves behind her cherished daughter, Lana (Lyle Thompson) Beck, who will forever hold the fond memories of her mother's laughter and gentle wisdom. She is also survived by her adoring grandchildren: Lori (Randy) Zehner, Franklin (Desiree) Pease, Robert Pease, Daylene Wittman, Dale (Rae) Hicks, Ashley (Craig) Heffernon, Abby (Aaron) Haase, and Samuel (Shadab) Hicks and 19 great grandchildren, who were blessed to have their grandmother’s love and guidance in their lives. Wanda's legacy will be also be remembered by her nephew, Lawrence (Cinda) Vogel, and great-niece, Lindsay (Clint) Silver. The lives she touched extend far beyond mere lineage, reaching into the hearts of friends and community.

She is preceded in death by her son, John Hicks; granddaughter, Nicole Paris; her sister, Betty Lorenz; two infant brothers; her husband, Dale Dean Hicks; her father, Lawrence Martin; and her mother, Ruby (Woodward) Martin. Their memory will forever be entwined with hers.

A funeral service to celebrate Wanda's life will take place on February 24, 2025, at 10:00 AM at First Southern Baptist Church, located at 1912 Southwest Gage Boulevard in Topeka, Kansas, with a graveside service to follow at Topeka Cemetery at 11:15 AM. In her honor, memorial contributions may be made to First Southern Baptist Church. 

Wanda Elaine Hicks leaves behind a rich tapestry of memories woven through love, laughter, and lasting connections. Her spirit will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of those she cherished and who cherished her in return.