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“Your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure…
You are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure.”
A Life Remembered
With humble submission to the will of God, we pause to celebrate and reflect upon the life of Iris Grace Hicks, affectionately known as “Doll.” A devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister-in-law, aunt, cousin, and cherished friend, Iris touched countless lives with her kindness, faith, and unwavering generosity.
Born on November 12, 1935, in Greensville County, Virginia, Iris was the beloved daughter of the late Sallie Louise Taylor and Philip Taylor. At an early age, she accepted Christ as her Savior and became a faithful member of Diamond Grove Baptist Church. Over the years, her love for worship also led her to Jerusalem Baptist Church, where she found great joy singing in the Senior Choir for many years.
Even as her health declined, Iris remained rooted in her faith, continuing to read her Sunday School lessons, lovingly delivered to her by Diamond Grove Baptist Church. Her quiet strength and spiritual devotion were unwavering to the very end.
A Life of Hard Work and Skill
Iris received her early education at Diamond Grove School, where she discovered a lifelong passion for sewing. Her remarkable talent with a sewing machine led to a long and fulfilling career in the garment industry. She worked at the Emporia Garment Factory in Emporia, Virginia, and later at Carol’s Apparel in Roanoke Rapids, North Carolina, until its closing in 1987. Her skilled hands and eye for detail left a lasting mark on every garment she created.
Iris was united in holy matrimony to the late Norfleet “Jimbo” Hicks, who preceded her in death. She was also preceded in death by her parents, two brothers, John Thomas Taylor and Phillip Taylor, Jr., one sister, Mary Alice Brown, and two stepchildren, Kathleen Tyler and Bernard Thomas.
A Heart Full of Love
Iris will forever be remembered for her compassionate spirit, quiet strength, and unwavering faith. She was always ready to help those in need and found joy in life’s simple pleasures — watching the Game Show Network, working on puzzles, and enjoying long phone conversations with friends and family.
Cherished Memories
She leaves to celebrate her life and carry forward her legacy: Four devoted children:Alphonso P. Hicks (Amy) – Franklin, VA, Vicki L. Hicks – Emporia, VA, Paulette H. Cain (Nathan) – Emporia, VA and Zachary T. Hicks – Honolulu, HI; seven beloved grandchildren: Tara Simmons (Jaffa) – Greensboro, NC, De’Shawn Cain – Brooklyn, NY, Demyra Cain and Stephon Cain – Emporia, VA, Tyreecka Hawks and Tierra Hawks – Franklin, VA, Tavoris Cain (Shamia) – Memphis, TN, one great-grandchild: Charleston Simmons, the joy of her heart; eight step-grandchildren, extended Family, sisters-in-law: Dorothy Hicks and Ollie Hicks – Emporia, VA and Carolyn Carter (Solomon) – Littleton, NC; Brothers-in-law: Robert Hicks and John Hicks – Emporia, VA and Waverly Hicks (Emma) – Mesa, AZ; a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and devoted friends also remain to cherish her memory.
Iris “Doll” Hicks lived a life marked by quiet strength, unwavering love, and steadfast faith. Though she may be gone from our sight, the lessons she taught, the love she gave, and the example she set will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.
Relatives and Friends are encouraged to visit Mrs. Hick's tribute wall to share memories, extend condolences and to order floral tributes, as sentiments to the family.
The Management and Staff of Knox-High Mortuary, Inc. is privileged to provide
"Distinctive Services, With The Essence Of Excellence"
to the family of Mrs. Iris Grace Taylor Hicks.
"Diligent in Business; Fervent in Spirit." - Romans: 12:11
***TO ENSURE DESIRED FLORAL SELECTIONS AND A TIMELY DELIVERY,
PLEASE PLACE ORDERS THE DAY PRIOR TO THE FIRST VIEWING OF DECEASED***
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Iris Grace (Taylor) 'Doll' Hicks, please visit our floral store.