Zelda Frances (Bridges) Hicks, of Durant, Okla., beloved wife, mother, and family member died peacefully in her home on Nov. 14, 2018. Zelda was born Dec. 22, 1931 to Oscar David and Georgia Eathel (Arnold) Bridges near Willis, Oklahoma.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother, Ross Bridges, and her sister, Anita (Bridges) Harris. She is survived by her husband J.W. Hicks, daughter Jane Hicks, son Sterling Hicks, granddaughter Emma Jane Hicks, great-grand-daughter Londyn Rose Smith, daughter-in-law Suzy Hicks Herron, sisters LaWanda (Bridges) Walker and Chloe (Bridges) Armstrong, and brothers Harlan and Lloyd Bridges.
Zelda paid special attention to all the family children, including her many nieces and nephews, for whom she arranged special outings, adventures, and parties. She was also especially beloved by the many Sunday school children she taught over the decades as a faithful member of Fairview Baptist Church.
Zelda was a great supporter and encourager for her family, her Church family, and her customers at Swearengin Insurance where she worked as an agent for 39 years. Her customers thought just as highly of her and for good reason. Her knowledge and insistence on absolute confidentiality for clients earned their trust. Further, her focus on looking out for their best interests converted many clients into life-long friends. She began work for Rector Swearengin and later grew especially fond of Mark Swearengin, Rhonda Rose, and Carla Burkett, with whom she worked closely. Her grace under pressure and her professionalism won for her the honor of Business and Professional Woman of the Year in 1996.
Zelda touched many lives and all who knew her will miss her quick wit and her never-failing thoughtfulness. Her family and friends invite you to come visit between the hours of 6 and 8 p.m., Friday, Nov. 16 at Brown’s Funeral Home, 4900 W Highway 70, Durant, Okla.
A celebration of Zelda’s life will be held at noon on Saturday, Nov. 17, 2018, also at Brown’s Funeral Chapel. Brother Bill Ledbetter will open the ceremony then invite family and friends to speak, in accordance with Zelda’s wishes. Burial will follow at Highland Cemetery in Durant.
Pallbearers are Eugene Harris, James Lewis Thomas, Mark Swearengin, Kristi Walker Giles, Michelle Walker Fentress, and Emma Jane Hicks.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.brownsfuneralservice.com.
Memorials may be made to Baptist Home for Girls, 13976 Anthony Lane, Madill, OK 73446,
https://www.obhc.org/baptist-home-for-girls.
Arrangements are under the direction of Brown’s Funeral Service in Durant.
