Obituary of Karen F. Hicks

Karen Faye Hicks (née Richmond), 68, of Berlin, New Jersey, passed away unexpectedly on the evening of January 28, 2025.  Born on October 11, 1956, Karen lived a life dedicated to family, community, and the education of children.

Karen’s radiant spirit touched countless lives.  Her 25-year career in education was a testament to her unwavering commitment to young people, shaping their futures with kindness and unwavering dedication.  Beyond the classroom, her involvement in her community was boundless.  She served as a dedicated board member for numerous organizations in Willingboro, NJ, including the Alliance for Quality Education, Communities United for Playgrounds, Willingboro Swim Park Parents (Treasurer), Willingboro Youth Wrestling Parents Association, and the Hawthorne Park PTA Executive Board, among others.  Her contributions left an indelible mark on the town she loved.

Karen’s greatest joy, however, was her family. She leaves behind her devoted husband of 43 years, Richard “Richie” Hicks, whose love was the cornerstone of her life. She is survived by her three cherished children: Clinton Hicks (and his companion Ashley Andresen), Jordan Hicks (and his wife Lisa Hicks), and Averie (Hicks) Neisler (and her husband Evan Neisler).  Her heart swelled with pride for her ten beautiful grandchildren: Nazhae, Nyair, Ayden, Cayden, Pryce, London, Alex, Austin, Aaron, and Mayana, who brought her immense happiness.  In her own words, her family was her “most important accomplishment.”

Karen was predeceased by her father, Mirkil Richmond Sr., and her mother, Lois (Skelly) Richmond. She is survived by her sisters Bonnie Richmond (and her husband Robert Rue),and Judy Eastburn (and her companion Lenny Elich); and her brother, Mirkil Richmond Jr.  She is also survived by her aunts, uncle, sisters-in-law, brother-in-law, numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends who will deeply miss her warmth and generosity.

Karen’s legacy extends far beyond her accomplishments; it’s woven into the lives she touched through her kindness, her dedication, and her unwavering love for her family and community.  She will be remembered for her warm smile, her compassionate heart, and her enduring spirit.  Her memory will forever be cherished by all who knew and loved her.  A celebration of Karen’s life will be held at the Camden County Boathouse on Saturday February 15th, 2025 from 2-6 PM.

In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory can be made to the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) organization and the Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance (OCRA) organization.

ACLU

https://action.aclu.org/give/make-gift-aclu-someones-memory

OCRA

https://ocrahope.org/get-involved/ways-to-give/make-a-donation/

Please mention Karen's name in your donation