Doris L. Hicks
“Well done, good and faithful servant!”
Matthew 25:24

Mrs. Doris L. Hicks, a native of Quincy, Florida and the second oldest of eleven children, was born on July 21, 1944, from very humble beginnings. Influenced by an abundance environment of educators and dressed in the full armor of God, she decided to attended Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU), a decision that would change the path of her life and others. Mrs. Hicks graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Education in 1967. She then matriculated on to graduate school from FAMU receiving her Master of Science degree in Education in 1970.

While at FAMU, she met and married the love of her life, Lorenzo H. Hicks, a native of Lakeland, who was the 1st chair trumpet player in the phenomenal renowned known Marching 100 Band, then matriculated to Bethune Cookman College where he received his Bachelor of Science Degree in Education in 1969. They had one child, Veronica L. Hicks-Crawford who currently resides in Columbia, South Carolina.
Mrs. Hicks is a retired educator with 36 years of teaching to her credit. This mover, shaker, legacy trailblazer, and giant pillar in the community of Polk County was named one of the “Most influential People in Lakeland” receiving the key to the city, inducted to the “Who’s Who in America” - 2021-2022 Hall of Fame, and honored with her own “Doris L. Hicks Day” – May 20, 2000. These are just a few of the numerous and prestigious awards that align the wall in her home. These awards were her aspirations and inspirational goals she achieved through education for all the hard work and dedication of service.

In addition, Mrs. Hicks served as the FAMU Polk County Alumni Chapter President for the last 40 years. While serving in this role, she diligently and proudly assisted on sending over 400 High School students to FAMU through grants and scholarships. On the National Level she served as chairwoman of the FAMU Distinguished Alumni Awards Committee, served on the Executive Board of the FAMU National Alumni Association, was awarded the Distinguish Alumni Association Honoree in 1997, received the Legacy Trailblazer Award 2022, and honored as the FAMU outstanding Alumni of the quasquicentennial. Again, these are just a few of her many global accomplishments bestowed upon her by her fellow alumni members.
She was also a very active member of her beloved church Greater St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church where she faithfully served on the Finance Committee. As an active member of her also beloved Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., she held several leadership positions over the years one being President from 1990-1992 and receiving several awards which included Miss Jabberwock Legend – April 2024 and the Minerva Community Achievement Award – May 2014.

As we reflect and remember, Mrs. Doris L. Hicks, affectionately known as the “Queen” she will go down in the history books for her illustrious achievement and work which became her passion and commitment impacting and blessing many generations to come forever!!

On October 2, 2024, our beloved Queen entered eternal rest. She was preceded in death by her parents: Samuel B. Fryson and Ruby underwood Fryson Clary; siblings: Reverend Gary E. Clary, Craig Ronald Clary and devoted husband Lorenzo H. Hicks.

Her laugh, love and legacy will be forever continued by her loving and only child: Veronica L. Hicks-Crawford (Michael); siblings: Marion D. Cole, Susie Ann Clary, Ruby D. Clary Whitsel (David), Harriett Charity (Roger), Lefell Clary, Chandler Clary (Regina), Michael Clary, Darrell Clary (Christine) and host of nieces, nephews, cousins and beloved friends.