Jessie Mae Hicks

Jessie Mae Hicks was born on April 15, 1933 to the late Tommy Johnson and Pearl Brewer in Tunica, Mississippi. Jessie and her loving twin sister Bessie Jones were educated in Mississippi and migrated to Chicago in their early twenties. Their journey from south to north allowed them to pursue better life opportunities. While in Chicago, Jessie met Melother Hooker and was blessed with the birth of her only daughter, Camille Renee.

In 1966, Jessie was joined in holy matrimony to Robert J. Hicks in Chicago, Illinois. Together they raised her daughter, Camille Renee. Jessie and Robert owned and operated J&J Restaurant on Chicago’s south side for many years. Shortly after divorcing, Jessie began a new career with the Chicago and Northwestern Railroad where she worked until her first retirement. She loved her job and was dedicated and committed to excellence in all things. Her career was something she treasured and enjoyed immensely. She took great pleasure in meeting new people and interacting with co-workers. When Jessie’s health deteriorated after a second stroke, she settled into full retirement.

In retirement, Jessie enjoyed living in the same apartment complex with her twin sister, Bessie. Her life was dedicated to family and her three grandchildren. Jessie was an excellent hostess and homemaker. Her creativity made her home a very special place for family and friends. Upon entering her home, your senses were tantalized by the various aromas from her kitchen. It did not have to be “Thanksgiving” for her to whip up a full meal with roasted turkey, dressing and macaroni & cheese. Anyone who knew Jessie, knew that she loved spending time with Gina, Michelle and Bobby (her grandchildren), quiet time I devotion with her God and shopping, shopping, shopping! But her greatest love was her daughter Camille.

In 1998 she moved to Kansas City, Missouri to be closer to her only daughter and her family who she cherished. Jessie was loved and admired by many and will always be known for her hospitality, kindness, and generosity. People often said of Jessie, “she is the sweetest person that God has blessed us to know.” Jessie passed away calling on the Lord on May 23, 2011 at Kindred Hospital in Kansas City, Missouri.

She leaves to cherish her memories, her devoted daughter, Camille Gay, son-in-law Robert Gay; three grandchildren, Gina, Michelle, and Robert Gay Jr.; (all of Leawood, Kansas); former husband Robert Hicks; twin sister Bessie Jones; nieces Brenda Davis (Chicago, Illinois); Pauline Williams (Minnesota); nephew, Ronnie Jones (Chicago, Illinois); cousins Allen, Glenda and Renee (Mississippi & Delaware); and cherished longtime friend Gwendolyn Howell (Chicago, Illinois). She also leaves a host of other relatives and dear friends.

Arrangements under the direction of Mount Moriah & Freeman Funeral Home, Kansas City, MO.