James Hicks

James Andy Thomas Hicks, notoriously known as Tommy, passed away on Tuesday, October 29, 2024, due to a heart attack that happened while he was at work. He was born on January 27th, 1962 at Bristol Regional Medical Center, and was able to reach the age of 62. He lived much of his life in Bristol Virginia, forming endearing relationships all around the surrounding areas.

To say that Tommy was a hard working man is an extreme understatement. He took pride in his job at Bristol Sign, where he worked for 23 years. He often sent pictures of signs that he helped install to those that he was fond of. Tommy was also very pleased with himself because he was able to start a successful job of caring for lawns. The enjoyment he received from seeing the sweat he put into his customers’ landscapes filled him with satisfaction. When he wasn’t placing signs or doing lawn work, he was participating in one of his many projects. These ranged from giving vehicles a new life, fixing up trailers, repairing equipment, or anything of the like.

Tommy received his education from John S. Battle High School. Although he didn’t complete school, he built a life for himself that brought forth contentment. He found out early on that he was passionate about cars and trucks. Tommy loved the idea of taking old, beat up, run down vehicles and putting beauty back into them. He had an eye for potential, and considered repairing vehicles an art. The love he had for old timey cars and trucks led him to his collection of Hot Wheels.

Going the extra mile for others before they thought to ask is how Tommy lived his life. As news of his heartbreaking passing was initially spread, the phrase “a heart of gold” is how dozens of people described him. Being around him was refreshing. To be picked on by Tommy, or receive a nickname from him was absolute confirmation that he adored you. Typically once he gave someone a nickname, their real name became nonexistent. Tommy welcomed people of all walks of life, never calculating any differences. His family was a true pillar in his life. “Good morning, I love you” was a guaranteed text every weekday. Nothing could have made him more proud than watching his two little girls grow into women and expand their families. Spending time with his loved ones was his paradise.

Tommy was preceded in death by his father, James Hicks; mother, Pauline Osborne; grandfather, Everett Hicks; grandmother, Mary Hicks; mother in law, Elizabeth Worley; uncle, Theodore Hicks; son in law, Michael Stanley; cousins, Johnny Clark and Jimmy Hicks.

Left to cherish his memory are his two daughters, Trish Stanley and significant other Jonathan Chapman, Jamie Smith and husband Shelton Smith; four grandchildren: Nikki Stanley and fiancé Rob Fite, Belle Stanley and significant other Preston Davidson, Jade Stanley, and Joey Yarber; two great grandchildren, Raleigh and Rhett Fite; two sisters, Karen Bays, Robin Hahn and husband Jay Hahn; brother, Everett Hicks; many cousins and several friends.

A visitation will be held on Monday, November 4, 2024 from 6:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. at the Main Street Chapel of Farris Funeral Service, 427 E. Main Street, Abingdon, Va. 24210. A service to honor Tommy’s life will be held in the same location, Tuesday November 5, 2024 beginning at 11:00 A.M. with Reverend Rex Carter officiating. Pallbearers will include Joe Walden, Carl Whitlock, Mike Mumpower, June Deel, Preston Davidson, Rob Fite, Greg Helton, and Cody Land. Honorary pallbearers will be Everett Hicks and Jesse Chapman. Tommy’s burial will follow immediately after the service is completed, and will take place at Mount Olivet cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to help offset the cost of final expenses.

The James Hicks Family is being cared for by Farris Funeral Service and Crematory, Main Street Location, 427 E. Main Street Abingdon, Va 276-623-2700