Mary C. Eglesberg Hicks

Mary C. Eglesberg Hicks, 85, of Mansfield, passed away Wednesday morning, May 30, 2018, at OhioHealth Mansfield Hospital. She was born December 10, 1932, in Mansfield, Ohio, to the late Anthony and Catherine (Collins) Eglesberg.

Mary graduated from Mansfield Senior High School. In her early years, she owned and operated a bookstore out of her home for many years. She then went to work for Madison Township Zoning Department as a zoning inspector and eventually retired from there. She was a driving instructor for 55 Alive Defensive Driving. Mary was civic minded and was very active in the Republican Party. She donated her time to the West Park Senior Center as well.

She was a faithful member of Real Life Church and former Sunday school teacher and Elder of the Church of Christ in Christian Union. Mary believed in living by the Golden Rule and treated everyone she met with kindness. She loved to knit and make special keepsake blankets for her grandbabies. In her free time, she enjoyed the challenge of completing crossword puzzles.

Mary is survived by her son, Lawrence (Kim) Hicks; step son, Dave (Tammy) Sipes; five grandchildren, Jeremiah (Erin), Katie (Doug), Dana (Jason), David (Mackenzie) and Danielle (Vernard); several great-grandchildren; and Pam (Chuck) Brooks, whom she thought of as a daughter. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband, Chalmer Gene Hicks, whom she married in 1959; and grandson, Lance Hicks.

Mary's encouraging words to all those who love her are as follows: Dear friends and family, Don't cry for me, for I'm in a better place. I gave my heart and soul to Jesus in 1961. He's been my mentor and guide through the years. I urge all listening to turn your life over to God and trust Him to lead you. You will find Him to be the best teacher and friend you ever had.

The family will receive friends from 1:00-2:00 p.m. Monday, June 4, 2018, at the Diamond Street Home of Wappner Funeral Directors, 98 S. Diamond St., Mansfield. The funeral service conducted by Pastor Phil Green will follow at 2:00 p.m. She will be laid to rest in Mansfield Memorial Park following the service. Memorial contributions may be made to Real Life Church.