Dorothia Jean Hicks

Dorothia "Dottie" Jean Hicks, an inspirational and adventurous woman, passed away peacefully on January 14, 2026, at the age of 93. Born on August 21, 1932, in the Tundra Community of Van Zandt County, Texas, to Ed Herring and Nellie Wages Herring.

Dottie, Dot, Mamere, Mimi, and Gran-Mammy as she was affectionately known, was a beloved daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.

Dottie graduated from Canton High School and was a devout Christian who loved the Lord. She pursued higher education at Tyler Jr. College and studied journalism at Eastfield Jr. College in Dallas, Texas. She earned a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from the University of Texas. An accomplished author, Dottie published books and articles, including a historical novel, "Harriet's Journey," and a biography, "Brimstone Bates," about the circuit riding preacher Rev. A. C. Bates. Her creative talents extended to screenwriting with "Solo of Love," painting, and modeling. She was a floor model for Neiman Marcus, appeared in various commercials, and worked as a stunt double for Faye Dunaway in the movie "Bonnie and Clyde."

Dottie met her true love, George Hicks, when she was just 13 years old. They married on May 26, 1950, and shared a life filled with love. Her family was her everything, and she cherished the time spent playing with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, bringing joy and laughter to her later years.

As an artist, Dottie called herself the "painter of people" and was self-taught, finding happiness in creating portraits. Her commissioned works are displayed from California to the Carolinas, including a notable full-length western portrait of the late actor Steve McQueen, which he had hanging over his fireplace. Dottie's creative spirit was boundless, always seeking new artistic projects and involving her grandchildren in her endeavors. She was glamorous, always dressed to the "Ts," and delighted in collecting hats for all occasions, sharing them with her granddaughters.

Dottie's adventurous spirit encouraged her family to dream big and explore life fearlessly.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Ed and Nellie Herring, her brothers Bill Herring and John Herring and her sister Mary Carpenter and her beloved husband, George Hicks, Jr.

She is survived by her children: Suzie Ferrell, Mike and Donna Hicks, Tim Hicks; grandchildren: Shane, Jordan, Amanda, Ashleigh, Jessica; great-grandchildren: Kadalin, Makala, Sonnett, Canyon, Caleb, Trevor, Hannah, Alissa, Joshua, Emily, Chevy, Maverick; and other family and friends.

A visitation will be held on January 22, 2026, from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm at Eubank Funeral Home in Canton, TX, followed by a Celebration of Life service at 2:00 pm.

Dottie will be laid to rest next to her beloved George at Cool Springs Cemetery in Van Zandt County, Texas.