Bill grew up in a military family and at the age of 17 joined the U.S. Navy. He proudly served his country for over 21 years. He frequently spoke about his years of service, remembering proudly his time in the Persian Gulf and his months with the Sea Bees in Antarctica, as well as his love of fishing and hunting in Newfoundland. After his naval career, he worked at Johnson and Wales University and the Lowcountry Second Harvest Food Bank in Charleston, S.C.
After retirement, Bill returned to East Tennessee to be closer to his extended family. He was an active member of First Freewill Baptist Church in Johnson City. He served wherever needed, from van driver to treasurer. He was always willing to help those in need.
Bill is survived by his loving wife of over 58 years, Gail McCurry Hicks; his children, Shari Kinney and Billy Hicks, Jr. (Kara); four grandchildren, Elizabeth Nix, Kaitlin Winn, Caroline Kinney, and Tyler Hicks; six great-grandchildren; his sisters, Nancy Foran and Teresa Stoots (Bryan); and a large number of nephews, nieces, and cousins.
The family will receive friends Wednesday, November 5, 2025 from 5:00 PM until 6:45 PM at Monte Vista Funeral Home. Funeral Service will follow at 7:00 PM with Reverend Tony Trott officiating. Committal Service and Interment will be held Thursday, November 6, 2025 at 11:00 AM at Mountain Home National Cemetery (Historical Site) with military honors to be rendered by the American Legion Post #3/265 from Kingsport and Gate City, and members of the Navy Honor Guard. Pallbearers will be Tyler Hicks, Elijah Nix, Jon McCurry, Ben McCurry, Keith Stoots, and Todd Fagan.
I thank my God upon every remembrance of you. (Philippians 1:3)
Arrangements especially for Mr. Bill Hicks and his family have been made through Monte Vista Funeral Home & Memorial Park, 1900 E. Oakland Avenue, Johnson City, TN; 423-282-2631.
