Obituary of Raymond J. Hicks

Raymond Joseph Hicks Raymond J. Hicks, 98, of Merrick, passed away on April 17, 2024. Raymond was born to Joseph and Elizabeth Hicks in Brooklyn NY on November 23, 1925, during the Roaring 20's and Prohibition. He attended St. Clements, studied Latin and won the History Medal. He married Marie (Fleming) on April 7, 1951. He was a Navy veteran of WWII on the USS Broadwater, crossed the Equator as a Shellback, and was awarded the Philippine Liberation Ribbon, Asiatic Pacific Theatre Medal, American Theatre Medal, and the Victory Medal. Serving as a NYC Firefighter for 32 years stationed at Engine 84, his brotherhood of firefighters was central in his life. Growing up as a Brooklyn Dodger fan, watching the games at Ebbits Field, and always rooting for the Yankees, Ray had extensive knowledge of the game and enjoyed everything baseball. He was an avid reader, especially interested in historical non-fiction. He was also very active in the Knights of Columbus, and constantly in demand as a talented dance partner. Raymond will be remembered as a kind and loving husband, father, and friend, always dependable and there for his family. He was an understanding man, solid as a rock for those who loved and knew him. His loss is felt deeply by family and friends. Raymond is preceded in death by his wife, Marie Hicks, his brother Jack Hicks, his sister Doris Gustafson and her husband Ben. He is survived by his children, Helene Hicks and Michael Hicks, his daughter-in-law Debra Hicks, sister-in-law Margie Hicks, brother-in-law Joseph Fleming, and many caring nieces and nephews. The family would like to thank cousins Ruthann Riordan and John Fleming for their assistance with our dad. Visitation will be on Monday April 22, 2024 at 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm and 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm at the N. F. Walker, Inc. Funeral Home, 2039 Merrick Ave., Merrick NY Funeral service will be held on Tuesday April 23, 2024 at 10:30 am at Curé of Ars Catholic Church, 2323 Merrick Ave., Merrick NY. Burial will follow at Calverton National Cemetery 210 Princeton Boulevard, Calverton, NY.