James Edwin “Mickey” Hickerson of Winchester passed away on Wednesday, Aug. 6, 2025 at Vanderbilt University Medical Center at the age of 76. 

Born in Tullahoma to the late Leighton and Nell Daniel Hickerson, Mickey lived a life defined by humility, hard work, and devotion to the people he loved. He served his country proudly as a member of the United States Army and later worked in several warehouses in the area, including Coca-Cola, Prescott Bottling, and L&H Distributing. In addition to his parents, Mickey was preceded in death by his wife, Gwen Holden Hickerson.

He is survived by his daughter, Michele Fadli (Ayoub); his son, Ryan Hickerson (Terri); his brother, Leighton Daniel Hickerson; his sister, June Parker (David); and eight beloved grandchildren: Gwennie, Finn, Zayn, Tyler, Maddy, Ellie June, Holden, and Elias James. Mickey was a simple man with a good heart who loved his family above all else. He enjoyed being outdoors, working at his “farm,” and spending time with his grandchildren, who were the light of his life. He found joy in life’s small pleasures—happy hour at Sonic, riding his four-wheeler, and watching game shows. He was a loving husband and a dedicated father, showing his love through actions rather than words—making sure the car’s fluids were topped off, the tires had the right pressure, or sending a quick text, often written as,”sup?” or “h0w’s it g0in” using zeroes instead of the letter O to save time (more so his lack of patience). He was a hard worker and instilled that in his children. And while he was known to pinch pennies, there was always “McDonald’s money” when it came to the grandkids. Mickey was a lifelong Vols fan who often said he “bleeds orange.” His siblings, Daniel and June, recall his fearless adventures as a boy, climbing trees and leaping from one to another. True to form, he left this world outside, doing what he loved. He lived life on his own terms and never wavered from his values. Papa Mickey will be remembered always and will be deeply missed.  “Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.” (Matthew 5:5) Mickey lived that truth every day—not seeking attention, but showing strength in kindness, loyalty, and love. As Branch Rickey once said, “It’s not the honor you take with you, but the heritage you leave behind.” His heritage lives on in the family he loved, the lessons he taught, and the quiet example he set.

Visitation for Mr. Hickerson will be held on Saturday, Aug. 16, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Kilgore Funeral Home. Funeral services will immediately follow at 1 p.m. in the Kilgore Funeral Home chapel. Burial will follow at Oakwood Cemetery.

Kilgore Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Tullahoma News – Aug. 13, 2025