Obituary of Leon Hicks

ATKINS, VIRGINIA: LEON C. HICKS, SR. dies at 97, Oak Island, NC. Leon Hicks passed away on Tuesday, Oct 15th, after several weeks of failing health. He had been a resident of Oak Island/Southport since 2007 where he lived with his son and daughter-in-law. Leon was originally from Atkins, Virginia, where he graduated from high school, and then he completed a business college program at Marion College, VA. He served in the National Guard during World War II while employed as an industrial engineer for Burlington Industries. He continued to be employed by Burlington Industries for 43 years managing operations in Marion, in the NC towns of Randleman, Burlington, and Wadesboro, and Harriman, TN. Mr. Hicks also worked at many other locations on temporary assignments throughout his career. He married the "prettiest girl he had ever seen," Dorothy Louise Smith of Rural Retreat, VA, in 1939. Dorothy preceded Leon in death by nearly 18 years. He will be buried next to her near their birth homes. Leon was best known for his devotion to his family, to worthy causes that promoted the welfare of others, and for his patriotism. He was also an avid gardener and had a special touch in growing beautiful azaleas. He was one of the oldest members of the Rotary Club (66 years). He had been an active member of the United Methodist Church for his entire life. He and Dorothy were especially supportive of the church in Harriman, TN were Leon served on the church vestry. Most recently he was active at Ocean View United Methodist Church at Oak Island, NC. He was an avid golfer, having hit a hole-in-one at age 88. He enjoyed bird-watching even on his last day on earth. He loved the beach and especially the family reunions he convened at Ocean Isle Beach, NC for over 40 years. He is North Carolina's oldest recipient of a certificate in computer literacy. When asked about the secret to a long life he replied, "Stay busy, and never stop learning." Leon is survived by four sons and their wives: Preston, Denny, Leon Jr., and Clifford. He has 14 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren, and his oldest sister, Rosemond Coulthard. Funeral Services will be held Saturday, October 19, 2013 at 1:30 p.m. at Seaver-Brown Chapel, Marion, Virginia. Burial will follow in Rose Lawn Cemetery, Marion, Virginia. The family will receive friends Saturday from 12:00 noon until the time of service at Seaver-Brown Chapel. In lieu of flowers, Leon's wishes are that memorial gifts be sent to Harriman United Methodist Church, 601 Queen Ave, Harriman, TN 37748. Rotarians are encouraged to contribute to the polio eradication program. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the family at www.seaverbrown.com. Seaver-Brown Funeral Service and Crematory is serving the Hicks Family.