Maezell Hicks went to her heavenly reward on July 20, 2015.

She was born May 27, 1924, from the union of R. Bennie Smith and Hettie Musgrove Smith. Maezell, though a child of the Great Depression, experienced all of the joys rural living could offer a child in the House community of Neshoba County where she grew up and attended school.

While at school her good looks caught the attention of a handsome boy, Troy “Buddy” Hicks, who after serving three years in the Army Air Corps in Europe in World War II became her husband when the war ended.

With two small pretty little girls in tow, Maezell and Buddy ventured across Mississippi to settle in Vicksburg in 1952. The two girls were joined by a baby brother, Benny, born in Vicksburg in 1954.

Mrs. Hicks retired from Cooper Lighting in 1986 after 24 years of dedicated service to begin a new chapter in her life as “Mamaw”. Though known far and wide as a great cook (especially fried chicken and banana nut bread) she was more proud to be known as “Mamaw” to children and adults, no matter their age, race, or whatever.

She treasured her retirement spent catering to the whims of her three children, five grandchildren, others in the neighborhood and her gardening. She was a giver who gave all she had until no longer able to do so.

Mrs. Hicks was preceded in death by her husband of 51 years, Troy Hicks; two sisters; and one brother.

She is survived by daughters, Sue Campbell (Roy), Pat Cappaert (Danny) and a son, Benny Hicks (Karen).

She is also survived by a sister, Imogene Hataway and a brother, Bobby Smith.

“Mamaw” is also survived by five grandchildren she worshipped, Christy McCoy, Leigh Ann Wilkins, Summer Anderson, Traci Stewart, Chad Hicks and several great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Thursday, July 23, 2015, at Riles Funeral Home with visitation from 9 am until the service. Interment will be at Greenlawn Gardens Cemetery.

The family wishes to express their deep gratitude and appreciation to Belmont Gardens and Hospice Ministries for the care and kindness extended to Mrs. Hicks during her illness.

Acknowledging that Mrs. Hicks was a long time supporter of St. Jude’s Hospital the family requested that donations be sent to St. Jude’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.