Jim Hicks

James Lavern Hicks was born May 20, 1975 in Plentywood, MT, the son of Pastor James M. Hicks and Lynn (Lanius) Hicks. He had one brother, Jonathan. The family moved to Harrah, Oklahoma in 1990 where Jim attended Harrah High School. Jim graduated magna cum laude with his bachelor’s degree from Oklahoma City University. He earned both his master’s and PhD. from the University of Oklahoma. Jim had postdoctoral research positions at the University of Iowa and Washington State University. It was while at OU in 2000 that he met Sharon Fair, and they were married in 2003 and they welcomed their beloved son Orson Hicks in 2008. Dr. Hicks joined the Northeastern State University faculty in 2010 as an assistant professor of Physics. In 2016, he was promoted to associate professor and granted tenure. As a friend and colleague, faculty members remember him for his commitment, collegiality and willingness to help. Dr. Jim Hicks was a valued member of the Gregg Wadley College of Science & Health Professions. His commitment to student success and genuine caring for students laid the foundations of his contributions to NSU. During his time at NSU, Dr. Hicks was instrumental in the development and implementation of both the Applied Physics and Mechanical Engineering degree programs. Additionally, he made contributions to science education in our region through projects designed to help teachers become qualified to teach chemistry and physics. When Jim wasn’t working he loved spending time with his family, tinkering with technology, playing games, and making music with his friends. James passed from this life on Friday April 12, 2024 at his home in Tahlequah, OK. He was 48 years old and will be greatly missed by all the family and friends.

James is preceded in death by his grandparents James W. Hicks, Irma Claire (Soderstrom) Hicks, John (Jack) Lanius, Helen (Watson) Lanius.

Those left to cherish his memory include Sharon Fair and son Orson Hicks of Tahlequah, OK, James M and Lynn Hicks of Harrah, OK, Jonathan Hicks and Kaitlyn Palone of Midwest City, OK. As well as many aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, colleagues and students. Special thanks and love to Mia Revels. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Humane Society of Cherokee County.

A Celebration of the Life of James Lavern Hicks will be held on Sunday, April 21, 2024 at 3:00 PM at Reed Culver Funeral Home with Reverend Susan Hamilton officiating. A reception will be held at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Tahlequah following services.