William J. Hickey Jr.

Jay, Age 87, died October 7, 2026. He was born on June 2,1939 as the son of Lorene and Jeff Hickey in Sparta, Tennessee. He graduated from White County High School and Middle Tennessee State University. While at MTSU, Jay met Nancy Ellen Johnson of Old Hickory, and they were married shortly after graduation in 1961. After salvation, Jay considered his marriage to Nancy, his loyal and faithful companion for 65 years, the most significant event in his life.

Jay received the gift of salvation after accepting Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior in 1970. He retired from the US Army in 1984 after 24 years of service.

After leaving the Army, Jay received an MBA from the University of Hawaii, Manoa.

In addition to his parents, Jay is preceded in death by his daughter: Mary Shannon Hickey; his nephew: Paul Thomas Hickey, Jr.; and his brother: Paul Thomas Hickey, Sr.

Survivors include his wife: Nancy; sons: Jeff and Stephen (Jennifer); grandchildren: Will, Teagan, Stepheny, and Ashlee; great-grandchildren: Tanner, Ryleigh Mae, Declan, Liam, and Allison; sister-in-law: Marie Hickey; niece: Shannon (Scott) Hickey Sarrat; grandnephews: Thomas, Andrew; and grandniece: Claire.

A Graveside service will take place at the Nashville National Cemetery (1420 Gallatin Pike S. Madison, TN 37115) at 1:00 PM on Friday, October 16, 2026.