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JIMMY HICKS Obituary

JIMMY ROLAND
HICKS, Jr., 62

PORT CHARLOTTE - Jimmy Roland Hicks, Jr., born on April 3, 1956 in Bartow, Florida, to Helen (Coulter) Hicks and the late Jimmy Roland Hicks; passed away at age 62 on May 10, 2018 in Port Charlotte, Florida.
Jimmy graduated from The University of South Florida with a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education in 1978. He was a teacher in the Polk County School System until retiring in 2017, where he found his calling through education, spending most of his professional career working with at-risk children.
Jimmy was the loving husband of Melissa (Cullum) Hicks. He is survived by his daughters, Candace Gallo (Stephen) and Lyndsay Britt (Dustin); step-daughters Amber Locke, Casey Cardoso, and Rachel Nettles (Brett); sisters, Susan Davis and Karen Donhaiser (Mike); brother, Ronald 'Buddy' Hicks (Annette); and grandchildren, Maverick Britt, Jesalyn Cardoso, and Layla Cardoso.
He had a passion for salt water and enjoyed fishing, but liked catching better. He was a skilled carpenter and gifted musician, playing the guitar and drums. He was a member of Main Street Baptist Church, where he shared his musical gifts and love for the Lord.
Friends and family are welcome to attend a memorial, officiated by Pastors Terry Coe and Adam Mayfield, on Saturday, May 19 with visitation at 10:00 am, followed by the service at 11:00 at Main Street Baptist Church, 1140 E Main St, Bartow, Florida, 33830. Jimmy has requested that we celebrate his life and not mourn during this time. In his own words, he stated, 'no black dresses.' In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Main Street Baptist in Jimmy's honor.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Ledger from May 15 to May 16, 2018.

Memories and Condolences
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April Culbertson

May 16, 2025

I am very sorry to hear about Mr. Hicks. If it wasn't for him, I wouldn't have even passed 5th grade at Stephens. I was a wild child and he helped me learn how to work through my emotions the proper way. He gave me a copy of a book he got as a child which I commmonly still go back to reread.

Jacquelyn Allsworth

October 29, 2018

Mr. Hicks , was the only teacher who tried to help his students become a better version of themselfs , i know i must of got on his nerves and i was so stubborn, but he always made sure i got what he was teaching us , he always was so funny and made us laugh when we were having bad days , my favorite memory with mr. Hicks is around christmas time he would always play his Christmas cd's and just make it really feel like chirstmas. Rest In Paradise mr.hicks. - jack-jack

Ashley Robinson

May 18, 2018

So sorry to hear about Mr. Hicks passing. He was my teacher in 8th grade at Bartow middle school. He was an awesome teacher and an amazing person! He will truly be missed.

Gloria Barnhart

May 17, 2018

So sorry to hear of the loss of your husband. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Tammy Whitnable

May 16, 2018

Melissa and family,

Please know that you have my heartfelt sympathy on the loss of your husband. I know that there is little I can say to console you - but please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time. I hope you find comfort with those around you. Treasure the memories. Stay strong.

Robyn Tillman

May 16, 2018

He will be missed. I had him as a teacher for 3 years, from 5th to 7th. I am very grateful for his teachings or I would have never of passed the 5th grade at Floral Elementary in 1995. I remember him doing things with his teachings that teachers could never do today.

Maria Gallo

May 15, 2018

Sad to hear of Mr. Hicks' passing. I knew him from Stephens Elementary School. He had a sharp wit and was always good for a laugh. It makes me smile to think he'd joke about the kids being scared of him for his seemingly gruff tone, but he actually had a heart of gold. My sympathies to his family.

Jennifer Whatley

May 15, 2018

Mr. Hicks was my fifth grade teacher at Stephens Elementary and remained my favorite teacher from then on. My nephew ended up having him for a teacher as well. He was a kind, caring and funny teacher and each time I saw him as an adult, he was just as funny and kind.
Family and friends of Jimmy; you are all in my prayers and have my deepest sympathy.

Duncan & Kim King

May 15, 2018

Rest in peace . Thinking of your family at this time.

Formeka John

May 15, 2018

I was almost lost for words until I can hear in the back of mind you saying" when I leave here just know I'm OK". Tell that boy to do right. Mr. Hicks you will forever have a place in our hearts. You will truly be missed. Love always Meka and your boy for life Roshard. Rest up.

Mary Friday

May 15, 2018

Jimmy was a good friend in high school. I knew him for four years in the band and various academic classes. He was a talented percussionist with a great sense of humor. His faith in Jesus was consistently a light. I moved from Bartow after our graduation, but memories of his kind and gentle spirit live on! I'm grieving with his family and praying that your memories of him will ease your sorrow.

LISA Mae

May 15, 2018

Melissa I am so sorry for your loss, praying for you and your family.

Lisa Walker

May 15, 2018

Melissa..I know Jimmy must have been a special person to have captured your heart. Peace is yours because he is with the Father at rest. Priceless. We all love you and hope to see you soon.

Carol Simpson

May 15, 2018

Dear Melissa and family,
Sounds like you were blessed with a wonderful husband and father. May his love for you bring great comfort.
Peace be with you.

Linda Ray

May 15, 2018

Melissa, so sorry for your loss. Thoughts and prayers with you and the family.

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