Phyllis Lee Hickman passed away peacefully in her home on February 2, 2023. She was born in Leeds, Alabama on August 27, 1932, daughter of the late William LeRoy Lee and Vera Ketcham Lee.
She is survived by her devoted husband of 68 years Donald Allen Hickman, their two children Richard Hickman and Janet Braden (Mike), as well as 3 grandchildren, Jake, Jeff, and Jill Braden. She is also survived by her loving nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews and several cousins. She was preceded in death by her brother William Glenn Lee and sister in-law Jewel Lee as well as many beloved cousins.
Phyllis met Don while attending Auburn University, where she earned her BA and MA degrees and was employed as an educational counselor for Auburn University. They were married in Leeds, Alabama and lived briefly in Fort Worth, Texas before moving to Florida.
She resided in her home on beautiful John’s Lake for 58 years. Phyllis delighted in tending to her flower gardens and always showcased her freshly cut flowers throughout her home. She was a gourmet cook and loved entertaining family and friends. Phyllis was an avid reader and enjoyed playing golf and tennis in the women’s leagues at the West Orange Country Club. She and Don enjoyed traveling and visited 32 countries throughout their life together.
Phyllis was a devoted member of the Oakland Presbyterian Church where she taught children’s Sunday School classes in her early years. She was a “Pink Lady” volunteer with West Orange Memorial Hospital Auxiliary and a volunteer for the Hospice Thrift and Gift store for many years. She was a former board member of the Oakland Nature Preserve and a founding member of the Bloom and Grow Garden Society, serving as a liaison between Bloom and Grow and the Oakland Nature Preserve. Phyllis was also a charter member of West Orange Country Club and the Pine Hills Bridge Club.
Phyllis was most happy when surrounded by her family, including her cherished cat, Andy. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
A memorial service will be held on Monday, February 13, 2023, at 3:00pm at Oakland Presbyterian Church.