Mary Irene Hicks

Mary Irene Hicks, 82, of Knoxville, Tennessee, went to be with the Lord on Monday, May 8, 2023. She was born September 14, 1940, in Knoxville, the daughter of the late William and Lydia Wright. She was the middle child of 9 siblings and the last to pass. In 1961, she married Raymond Harless Hicks, the late. Mary is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Kim and Mike Scates; son and daughter-in-law, Ray and Robin Hicks; Travis (grandchild) and Kayla Scates; Tori (grandchild) and Kyle Higashi; Sierra (grandchild) and Tyler Myers; Austin Knighten (grandchild); Isabel Hicks (grandchild); Millie Higashi (great-grandchild); Felicity Myers (great-grandchild); along with several nieces and nephews. While raising her family, Mary dedicated her life to helping others. She worked at Lakeshore Mental Health Institute for 11 years before retirement. All who knew Mary, knew retirement was the most exciting time of her life. She spent her days chasing grandchildren around the pool during the summer, getting her hair done once a week, and volunteering her time at Serene Manor Medical Center. The family wants special mention to the quality of care given to Mary by the staff members at NHC Healthcare, Fort Sanders, where she was a resident since 2015. A private graveside service will be held at Berry Highland Memorial Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Pat Summitt Foundation.