Barbara Ann James Hickey

Barbara Ann Hickey (née James) died unexpectedly on September 20, 2017, in Bozeman, Montana. Born April 7, 1952 in Olean, New York to John V. James and Helen B. James, Barbara moved to Dallas with her parents when young, graduated from Hillcrest High School in Dallas, earned a bachelor's degree in English Literature from Vassar College in New York, returned to Dallas and completed a Master's degree in English at Southern Methodist University. She later went on to teach English at several local junior colleges. Barbara loved the English language and being an educator, a role that was more about how she saw her contribution to the world rather than a task to be filled. Her personal libraries were extensive and varied, a reflection of her love for books and her wide-ranging personal interests.

With a big soft spot in her heart for all creatures great and small, she took care of and rescued many dogs, cats, horses, parrots, and llamas throughout her life. This love of all living things further extended to her garden, which thrived and grew under her instinctual ability to nurture life. Her caring nature and compassion also extended to supporting and participating in various philanthropic causes, of which most importantly to her was the Alzheimer's Association of Greater Dallas.

She joins her son, John Daniel Hickey (1991), in rest, and is survived by her daughters, Erin H. Applegate (Michael), Katherine Hickey and Bryn Hickey. Her “Girls”, as she called them, will miss her more than words can ever accurately express. They acknowledge daily how lucky they were to have had her for their mother.

Funeral Services will be held on Friday, September 29, at 2:00 pm at Sparkman-Hillcrest in Dallas, with a reception to follow.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The SPCA of Texas or to the Alzheimer's Association of Greater Dallas.