Shirley Ann Hicks

Obituary of Shirley Ann Hicks

“And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are called according to his purpose.” – Romans 8:28

Shirley Ann Hicks was born on May 28, 1942, in Quitman, Louisiana, to the late Alvin Potts and Allie B. Potts. She was the second of six siblings and was preceded in death by her siblings Carrie Mae (Harold), Alvin Jr. (Mary), James Earl (Savayolia), and Robert Louis (Lolita). 

Affectionately known as Shirl, Ma, Shirley Ann, and Momma Shirley, she lived a life full of purpose, faith, and love.

From a young age, Shirley accepted Christ as her Savior and was baptized at Bethany Baptist Church in Bethany, LA. Her faith became the cornerstone of her life, guiding her every step and profoundly influencing all who knew her.

A proud graduate of Jackson High School (Class of 1959), Shirley went on to attend Grambling State University, where she pledged the Alpha Theta Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education in 1963.

Immediately after graduation, she relocated to Chicago, Illinois, where she became a devoted member of New Progressive Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Dr. Elzie Young and Rev. Herbert Lee Jr. (both proceeding her in death), and presently under the leadership of Pastor Calvin Malone Sr., Shirley was a pillar of faith and leadership. Her service included roles as Financial Officer, Sunday School Teacher, Vacation Bible School Coordinator, Church Rally Registrar, and Principal of New Progressive Christian Academy. She was also a faithful member of Pajama Praise Inc. 

Her favorite scripture, Romans 8:28, served as her guiding light, especially in her later years. Shirley truly believed that “only what you do for Christ will last.”

Professionally, she served Chicago Public Schools as a dedicated Librarian at Carver Middle School until her retirement in 1993. During this time, she pursued and earned a Master’s Degree in Library Science from Governors State University.

In 1964, Shirley married the love of her life, Leroy Harrell. From their union came one beautiful daughter, Angela LeMise Lampkin; whom she adored.

Shirley formed lifelong bonds of sisterhood, particularly with her dear friend Austrial Hearn, who became Angela’s Godmother. Together with a close-knit group of friends lovingly called The Mama N’ems, they supported one another through every chapter of life.

She later married Freddie Hicks and embraced the role of bonus mother to five daughters. She lovingly supported her husband until his passing in 2002. Two of her bonus daughters also preceded her in death. She leaves behind Fredrika (Leroy) Redict, Mattriwilda (Kevin) Williams, and Georgina Hicks as surviving daughters.

Shirley was a woman of courage, conviction, and compassion. She proudly participated in the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s, always advocating for justice and righteousness. Her strength of character and moral compass made her a role model to many—especially to her daughter and granddaughter. 

Shirley’s love language was service, and one of her greatest joys was feeding others. She became known for her soul food specialties—most notably her world-famous pecan pies and squash dressing. She loved fishing, cleaning fresh catch, reading and visiting the casino, where she shared Our Daily Bread devotionals with everyone she met. She never knew a stranger.

Her proudest titles were mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend. She especially delighted in her great-grandchildren, finding a new kind of joy through their lives. Prior to her passing, she learned her daughter had become an author—penning a book inspired by The Mama N’ems  entitled “No One Left Behind”. 

Even as her health declined, Shirley remained full of wit, gratitude, and grace. She deeply appreciated her loving caregivers, including Voneicia Goer, her devoted daughter Angela, and her grandchildren Bryant II and Bree, who ensured she was cared for with love, dignity, and warmth.

Her love was unwavering, and her relationships enduring. Whether through the Birthday Club, heartfelt letters, thoughtful texts, or regular calls, Shirley made it a point to stay connected. Her legacy is one of joy, hospitality, intercession, and steadfast faith.

She was preceded in death by her parents, four siblings, her husband, two bonus daughters, and beloved twin great-grandchildren, Marcus and Morgan Mabry.

She leaves to cherish her memory: Her daughter: Angela (Bryant Sr.) Lampkin. Her sister: Joyce Lynn Potts. Her grandchildren: Bryant Lampkin II, Brandon Lampkin, and Bree (Marcus) Mabry. Her great-grandchildren: Bryant Lampkin III, India Donson and Mia Mabry. Her bonus daughters: Fredrika (Leroy) Redict, Mattriwilda (Kevin) Williams, and Georgina Hicks. Her bonus son: Kayden Anderson. Her favorite cousin: Bobbie Liddell . A host of bonus grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, church family, and her treasured Mama N’ems. 

Her favorite hymn, “Going Up Yonder,” now becomes our anthem in her honor.

Shirley’s radiant spirit, bold prayers, and selfless love will live on forever in the hearts of all who knew her.

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