Simmie L. Hicks

Simmie L. Hicks Sr., age 72, of Springfield passed away peacefully at home on Monday afternoon, November 18, 2019. He was born in Battle Creek on August 23, 1947, the son of Jesse and Lucille (Harrod) Hicks. Simmie retired from the City of Battle Creek in 2002 after more than 22 years of service.

Simmie married Cindy Horwath on May 28, 1966; she survives. He is also survived by his son, Simmie Hicks Jr.; his grandchildren, Justin (Amanda) Hicks, Kristina (Joe) Martinez, Chelsie (Jack) Hicks, Garie (Sarah) Damer, and Hunter Coronado; his great-grandchildren, JT & Ricki Hicks, Jocelynn Morgan, Aniah & Lilli Martinez; his brother, Timothy (Carol) Hicks; several nieces & nephews, and special friends, Nancy & Dale Perry, Freddy Campbell, Terry Elliott, Jim Woodin, and Bobby Garrett (His Guardian Angel). Simmie was preceded in death by his parents; his daughter & son-in-law, Karen & Tom Robbins; and two brothers, Jesse Hicks Jr. and Mark Hicks Sr.

Simmie started racing at Galesburg Speedway in 1966, and he has continued to race and build racecars for the last 53 years. He also enjoyed watching his son, Simmie Hicks Jr. race. Simmie was most happy being in the garage around his family and friends.

A memorial service to celebrate Simmie's life will be held 2:00 p.m., Saturday, November 23rd at Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Home & Cremation Care, Battle Creek where the family will receive friends from 12:00 noon to 2:00 p.m. The family will continue the celebration of Simmie's life with a potluck luncheon at the American Legion Post#298 228 North 20th Street, Springfield. In lieu of flowers, please consider making donations to the family. Personal messages for the family may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.