Obituaries

Joyce L. Hickok, 102, of Galien, Michigan, passed away peacefully on June 11, 2026, after a long and meaningful life marked by devotion to family, education, faith, and service to others. Born on May 16, 1924, in St. Joseph, Michigan, she lived her life with strength, a generous spirit, and a deep commitment to helping others succeed. She was a loving and selfless woman whose presence brought comfort and encouragement to all who knew her.

Joyce was born to the late Burlin and Marie (Truhn) Hickman and grew up surrounded by the values of hard work, integrity, and care for others. On June 8, 1947, she married Warren R. Hickok, and together they shared many years of companionship and family life. He preceded her in death, as did her sons Bruce, David, and Mark Hickok. She was also preceded in death by her siblings, Sylvia Horton, Lucille Lathrop, Elaine Hurst, and Jack Hickman. Though she endured many losses over the course of her life, she remained steadfast in her faith and continued to be a source of strength for those around her.

After graduating from high school, Joyce pursued her love of learning and earned master’s degrees in education and music from Western Michigan University and Michigan State University. Her dedication to education reflected her belief in the power of knowledge to change lives. While Joyce taught in several area school districts, the majority of her career was dedicated to teaching remedial reading and choir to the students of Galien Public Schools. She was the kind of teacher students remembered long after they left her classroom because she believed in them, challenged them, and cared about their success. Her influence extended far beyond lesson plans and textbooks, and her legacy lives on in the many students whose lives were shaped by her dedication.

Faith was an important part of Joyce’s life, and she lived as a Christian with grace and conviction. Her values were reflected in the way she treated others, the way she served her community, and the way she cared for her family. She found joy in simple and meaningful things, and she carried herself with grace and warmth. Her life was a testament to perseverance, compassion, and the importance of living with purpose.

Joyce treasured her time with family, friends and community, with a dedication to serving others. She was a member of the Galien School Board and the Galien Library Board (into her 100th year of life). Additionally, she volunteered for many charitable organizations including Habitat for Humanity, Lutheran Brotherhood, The Old Rugged Cross Church garden renovation and local soup kitchens among others.

In her free time, Joyce enjoyed traveling and was fortunate to visit all fifty states and numerous locations around the world. She had a lifelong love of reading and found great pleasure in music. She also enjoyed directing school and church choirs. She was a lifelong fan of the Chicago Cubs and took joy in following the team throughout the seasons. She also enjoyed time spent “at the casino. These interests brought her happiness and reflected her appreciation for culture, connection, and the beauty of shared experiences.

Joyce is survived by her children, Carol (Michael) Huffman of Benton Harbor, Steven (Carol) Hickok of Leesport, Pennsylvania, and Kathryn Hickok of Niles, Michigan and son-in-law, Troy Hodges of Valley View, Texas. She also leaves behind eight grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, four great-great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces and nephews who will cherish her memory. Her family was one of her greatest joys, and she loved them deeply and unconditionally. Her legacy of kindness, wisdom, and devotion will continue through the generations that follow her.

Memorial contributions may be made in Joyce’s memory to the Galien Township Library at PO Box 278 Galien, Michigan 49113, and the Galien American Legion 402 N. Main Street, Galien, Michigan 49113.

A time of visitation will be held on Thursday, June 18, 2026, at Brown Funeral Home in Niles from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Funeral services will be held at Mission Hills Memorial Chapel, at 61453 M-51, Niles, Michigan, 49120, on Friday, June 19, 2026, at Noon. An interment will be held at Mission Hills Memorial Gardens.

Joyce will be remembered with love and gratitude by all who were blessed to know her and to enjoy her infectious laugh. Her life was long, full, and meaningful, and she leaves behind a legacy of education, faith, and family and community devotion that will not be forgotten. Though she has passed from this life, the example she set and the love she shared will remain in the hearts of many.

The family would like to express their deepest appreciation to Centrica Hospice Services, with special thanks to loving friends, Sheila Newman and Marsha Huss, whose care during her final years and moments cannot be understated.