Richard David Hicks

Emporia, Virginia - Richard David Hicks, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on April 17, 2026, at the age of 72, after courageously battling an ongoing illness. Born on May 27, 1953, in Emporia, Virginia, Richard was the cherished son of the late Benjamin Rook and Betty Mae Hicks. He was welcomed into the heavenly embrace of his parents, his sisters Lisa Mae Banks and Rena Young, his sister-in-love Mary Young, his great-nephew Michael Banks, and his lovely niece Maxine Banks. Richard's life was a testament to faith, love, and dedication. Raised in a nurturing and Christian environment, Richard embraced his faith early on, being baptized at Jerusalem Baptist Church in Emporia. His commitment to his beliefs deepened when he rededicated his life to Christ in 2018, joining the Jerusalem Baptist Church Missionary Ministry. His spiritual journey was enriched by his involvement with the Holy Majestics, a family choir where he sang alongside his mother, aunts, uncles, and sisters. A proud graduate of the Greensville County Public School System, Richard carried his education and values into a life of labor and service. He was a man who understood the dignity of work, holding positions at Perdue Farms, American Box Company, and Georgia Pacific. In 1990, he embarked on a notable career with the City of Emporia, where he was respected and loved by colleagues and residents alike. Despite declining health, he served with unwavering dedication until his retirement after 22 years. Richard's warmth was known far and wide, his infectious smile and genuine affection brightening the days of those around him. Known affectionately as "Cat Paul" or "Cat Daddy," he exuded a charismatic charm and a sense of style that endeared him to many. His love for his family was unparalleled, cherishing moments spent on the porch with his grandchildren, driving, and indulging in his passion for fishing and the great outdoors. To his family, he was the anchor—a source of strength and love. He leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories, survived by his devoted wife of 29 years, Hattie Hicks Vaughan, and his children: Richard Antonio Odom, Ricky Antoine Odom (Patricia), and Brian David McCray. He is also lovingly remembered by his children-in-love: Jermaine Hicks, Jeffrey Hicks, and Joyce Hicks Nieto (Chris), along with six grandchildren: Syriah Hope Odom, Kartasia Shade Banks, Jakayla Hicks, Blue Jeremiah Odom, Jaedyn Lee Odom, and Nicholas Odom. Richard's surviving family also includes his sister, Laura Rooks Clayton (Marion Ivan) of Gaston, North Carolina; his brother, Leonard Moody of Roanoke Rapids, North Carolina; four aunts, Pearline Rooks, Argie Banks, Ollie Hicks, and Dorothy Hicks; and five uncles, Howard Hicks, Hubert Hicks, Robert Hicks, John Hicks, and Waverly Hicks (Emma). A special nephew, Rufus Banks, along with a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends, will miss his presence dearly. In honoring Richard's life, the family will gather for a service on April 25, 2026, at 3:00 PM at Rising Star Baptist Church, located at 3931 Brandy Creek Road, Emporia, VA 23847. As we come together to celebrate his life, we take comfort in the words of Ecclesiastes 3:1-3, "To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven; A time to be born and a time to die; a time to plant and a time to pluck up that which is planted; a time to kill and a time to heal; a time to break down and a time to build up." Though Richard has departed from this world, his spirit and love will continue to inspire those who knew him. We remember him with profound gratitude and hold his memory close, knowing that he rests in eternal peace.