James H. Hickman Sr.

He was born on December 28, 1935 in Oak Grove, Louisiana to parents, Ike and Bessie Hickman.

James was preceded in death by his parents, sister, Hazel Rodriguez, and previous spouse, Grace Bartlett.

He is survived by his wife, Charlotte Hickman, four children, Kathy Donahoe and husband John, Jerry Wright and wife Terri, Jimmy Hickman and Melanie Rose; seven grandchildren, John Patrick, Lauren, Tyler, Tia, Clarissa, Collette and Kyleigh; and one great-grandchild Zayn; a sister, Betty Gardner; and brother, Tom Hickman and wife, Darlene; and his beloved granddog, Bella.

James was drafted into the Army on December 1, 1959 and received an honorable discharge on November 30, 1965. While serving, his duties included service in West Virginia, Colorado and a tour in Korea. He always loved attending Veterans’ Day programs at the schools, especially at Deer Park High School where his granddaughter, Tia, was a student performing with the orchestra. A medley of songs of all branches of the military were performed and he would stand proudly as The Army Song was played.

James had a long career in the car industry, always working in the Parts Department. Everyone knew to call James if a part was needed. He would find it! He retired from David Taylor Cadillac. He was an active member of the Milby High School Alumni, Houston Area Chevrolet Club and the SSR Fanatics until his health began to deteriorate. He had a passion for his family, cars, NASCAR and Dale Earnhardt.

He and Charlotte went on the Hot Rod Power Tour in 2004, sponsored by Hot Rod Magazine. The tour went from Houston to Green Bay, Wisconsin. He loved his SSR truck. Charlotte used to tease him, saying that he loved the truck more than her! In earlier years he enjoyed car racing, boat racing, skiing, golf and bowling.

A visitation for James will be held Tuesday, December 28, 2021 at 10:30am followed by funeral service at 11:30am, at Forest Park Lawndale Funeral Home, 6900 Lawndale Street, Houston, TX 77023.

A graveside service will occur Tuesday, December 28, 2021 from 1:30 PM to 2:00 PM at Houston National Cemetery, 10410 Veterans Memorial Dr., Houston, TX 77038.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to the Ronald McDonald House of Galveston, Inc., 301 14th Street, Galveston, TX 77550-2611.