Brenda Ann Hicks

With profound love and deep respect, we celebrate the life of Brenda Ann Hicks a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, entrepreneur, and community leader whose legacy will continue to inspire all who knew her.

Brenda Ann (née Hankerson) Hicks was born on July 17, 1942, in Cincinnati, Ohio, to the late James and Essie (née Jones) Hankerson. From this loving union came seven children, nurtured in faith, family, and resilience.

She was preceded in death by her beloved brothers James(Nannie), Charles(Christine) Stanley(Hattie), Joseph(Linda) and her beloved sister Loretta Cannon.

Brenda attended Cincinnati Public Schools and graduated from Central High School, where her kind spirit and warm heart left a lasting impression on all who knew her. On Christmas Eve in 1962, she married the love of her life, Robert “Bobby” Warren Hicks a union that became a beautiful testament to enduring love. Their marriage was admired by many, marked by steadfast devotion and unwavering affection. Together, they built a life rooted in deep faith, understanding, and a bond that only grew stronger with time.

This union was blessed with two children, Brenda Warrenetta Hicks Beverly(Edward Devon Beverly Jr.) and Robert Warren Hicks II, in whom she instilled values of resilience, compassion, and excellence.

Her legacy continues through her cherished grandchildren: Brielle Anier Beverly Gaston (Trevon), Cuyler Devaughn Beverly (Diana), and Edward Devon Beverly III. She adored her great-grandchildren: Rakquel, Riyha, Kalen, E’Dore, and Devon each carrying forward her spirit, strength, and love.

She is also lovingly remembered by her surviving sister, Louise Edwards(William) her devoted first cousin, Geraldine Warren (Ronald); Sister in Law Ingrid Hicks-Brown and a host of extended family members and dear friends whose lives she touched in countless ways.

A lifelong learner, Brenda believed it was never too late to pursue one’s dreams. After years as a devoted wife and mother, she chose to further her education. In 1994, she pursued her studies alongside her son, Robby, and in a moment of shared pride and accomplishment, she and her son  Robby, graduated together from the University of Cincinnati marking a truly special chapter in their lives. She earned her degree in Sociology, a reflection of both her dedication to learning and her deep understanding of people and community.

Brenda also became a certified cosmetologist, embracing her passion for beauty and empowerment as a ministry of care. Alongside five close friends, she co-founded Realities Hair and Nail Salon, creating not only a successful business but also a welcoming space rooted in community and connection. Through nail care and the compassionate service of foot washing, she offered not only physical care but also comfort, dignity, and a spirit of love to all she served.

After retiring from the City of Cincinnati, she continued her entrepreneurial journey by relocating her thriving business to North College Hill, where she became an active and respected member of the local business community.

Her commitment to service extended far beyond her business endeavors. She was a founding member of the ACH/Hughes Black Alumni Association, an organization dedicated to raising funds for college scholarships. As the Benevolence Chair, she faithfully served others, offering kindness, support, and a helping hand to those in need reflecting her servant’s heart. Through this work, she helped open doors of opportunity for future generations.

She was also a proud member of Friendship Unlimited and the Red Hatters Association, embracing joy and friendships with her signature vibrant spirit.

For countless years, she faithfully made monthly phone calls to a core group of women, gently reminding them of the importance of self-breast examinations a reflection of her deep care for the well-being of others. Brenda will be remembered as a vivacious woman whose boundless love was a guiding light. Her life was a testament to perseverance, faith, and purpose, and her impact will live on in her family, her community, and all who were blessed to know her.

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