Jo, as she was affectionately known, was born on March 20, 1942, in Pinson, TN to the late Thomas Perry Jeter and Roxie Thomas Cochran Jeter. She was a radiant light to all. Her earthly journey has been a legacy of love, compassion, and unwavering faith in God. She dedicated her life to serving God and to helping others.
After a successful nursing career she managed a weight loss clinic. Later she managed a drug recovery clinic, treating all with kindness, empathy and dignity. She saw the good in everyone and she was loved by all who knew her.
She is survived by her loving children, Jerry E. (Bud) Milligan II (Crystal) and Melinda Milligan; her granddaughters, Roxie Elaine Bailey, Savannah Grace Milligan, Alyssa Faith Milligan; her great-granddaughters, Ava Monroe Bailey and Evelyn Rose Bailey Roy; her companion, Wilton Hood; her sister, Lessie Ann Harris; and her brother, Thomas Perry Jeter, Jr.
She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 23 years, Norvel D. Hickman; brothers, Lowell Jeter, Howard Jeter, Murray Lynn Jeter, and Jerry Glynn Jeter, and her sisters, Lillian Vance and Louise Spellings.
A service to celebrate the life of Jo Hickman will be held on Tuesday, December 2, 2025 at 11 AM at the South Chapel of George A. Smith and Sons. Burial will follow in Big Springs Cemetery near Pinson. The family will receive friends beginning at 10 AM, one hour prior to the service.
