In Loving Memory

Photo of John Al Hicks (Jaye)

John Al Hicks (Jaye)

January 30, 1955 — September 25, 2026

John Al Hicks (Jaye), who bid farewell to this world on September 25, 2026, passed peacefully in the comforting presence of his family at Tripler Army Medical Center in Honolulu, HI. Born on January 30, 1955, in Buffalo, NY. John lived a life full of kindness, service, love and happiness. John was the beloved son of Christine V. White of Jackson, TN and the late Plummer White. He is survived by his devoted son, William (Shuzel) Hicks, Sr., of Bronx, NY and his grandsons, William Hicks, Jr., and Chancellor who brought immense joy to his life. His siblings include his brother Harold Hicks of Buffalo, NY, his sister Carolyn (Amos) Lapp of Jackson, TN, and his brother Paul (Ivete) White of Dallas, TX. His extended family also includes one uncle, Lawrence Davis, his aunts, Yvonne Alls and Lillian Harris, his niece Sandra; and his nephews Paul and Khaleyb, as well as a host of relatives and friends who were all touched by his generous spirit. John shared a lifelong loving partnership with Adelina Dos Santos. Together, their life was filled with love, laughter and family, including two bonus sons, Jamie (Lorelei) Dos Santos, and their sons: Jeremiah and Jayden of Los Angeles, CA. Rey (Bushra) Dos Santos, and their sons: Kairo and Kenji of Las Vegas, NV. He was an alumnus of McKinley High School in Buffalo, NY and graduated in 1973 with a diploma in Mechanical Engineering. In 1978, he enlisted into the United States Air Force, where he served until his honorable discharge retirement in 1993, attaining the rank of Staff Sergeant. Following his military career, John dedicated over 30 years of civilian service to the U.S. Army Signal Corps, culminating in his role as a Project Manager. His exemplary service earned him numerous accolades, including two Achievement Medals for Civilian Service, as well as selection as the 311th SC(T) Civilian of the Quarter in 2021 at Fort Shafter, HI. John's life was a testament to his faith, which he confessed at an early age. He was baptized by Rev. Dr. Richard H. Dixon at Second Temple Baptist Church in Buffalo, NY. He later served as President of the Youth & Young Adult Choir at Friendship Missionary Baptist Church. Blessed with a quick wit and an ever-present smile. John had a unique ability to make everyone feel welcome and valued. He was known for his love of tinkering with electronics, from repairing radios and TVs to building stereo speakers. He also always had an eye for fashion, never failing to present himself with style and grace. A service to honor and celebrate John's life will be held on October 25, 2026, at 9:00 AM at Nuuanu Memorial Park & Mortuary, 2233 Nuuanu Avenue, Honolulu, HI 96817. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to a charity of your choice, in keeping with John's spirit and generosity. The family of John Hicks extends their deepest gratitude to the staff at Tripler Army Medical Center for their compassionate care during his final days. "Forever in our hearts," John will be dearly missed and fondly remembered. As we mourn his loss and celebrate his life, we find solace in John's own words: "It's Good To Be The King!" His legacy of love and laughter will continue to inspire those who knew him. Although our family chain is broken, we hold onto the hope that we will be reunited once more. Rest in Eternal Peace "JAYE"

In lieu of flowers, the family of John Al Hicks (Jaye) welcomes donations to a charity, nonprofit, church, or organization of your choosing.

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