Judith Myra Hicks

Judith Myra Hicks (Judy), passed away on Sunday October 25, 2026 at the Grand Traverse Pavilions. Judy was born on January 12, 1940, in St. Louis, Missouri, to William and Myra Faris.

Judy graduated from Webster Groves High School in 1957 and graduated from Michigan State University with a bachelor's degree in speech pathology.

In June 1962, Judy married her high school sweetheart, Dave Hicks, at her parents' home on Torch Lake, Michigan. Judy and Dave moved to Traverse City in 1963 and quickly wove their way into the community, partially thanks to the Newcomers Club and its spinoff, the Malahini Club where they met lifelong friends.

When the children were old enough to attend school, Judy returned to college at NMC and earned a bachelor's degree in nursing. She worked as a registered nurse at Munson Medical Center and Grand Traverse OB/GYN. She was extremely proud of her career and the care she provided for women in her community.

She was at her happiest though supporting her children, either by attending sports events and school activities, or helping them (and their friends!) navigate life with solid advice.

Judy and Dave loved the outdoors and could often be found exploring a trail, paddling together in a kayak, or strapping on snowshoes for a winter adventure. After Dave’s passing in 2021, Judy felt like she lost her mooring. The depth of her sorrow reflected the profound bond they shared and how much Dave meant to her.

Judy was preceded in death by her husband and her sisters, Barbara Gilmore, Nancy Meffert, Sally Tummelson, and their spouses.

She is survived by her children, Don Hicks (Gretchen), Diane Hines (Eric), and Sharon DeMeester (Mark); her grandchildren, Heidi Hicks (Christoph Fischer), Ben Hicks (Jenna Beattie), Rachel Miller (Hayden Howe), Stuart Miller (Savannah Stanley), Zach DeMeester (Jenna Schneider), Sam DeMeester (Zoe), and Anna DeMeester (Zach Diotte).

Friends and family are welcome to share memories at Reynolds-Jonkhoff Joncoff funeral home on Friday November 6th, 3-6pm.

Judy cared deeply about the preservation of natural resources and protecting the environment for future generations. To honor her legacy, donations may be made to the Grand Traverse Conservation District.