April 16, 1971 – July 19, 2022

Julian Wayne Hicks was born on April 16, 1971, the first born child of Judith Latting Hicks and Herman J. Hicks. Judith eventually divorced and remarried.  In his new family, Julian became the oldest of seven siblings.

Julian attended Elsik high school and graduated from Prairie View A&M University in 1996.  There,  he discovered his affinity for science and decided to pursue a dental career. In his application to dental school he explained his reasons:

“My mother and grandma have taught me to help people, especially your family when they need you.  Helping people has been a way of life for me. I chose my pathway, with God’s and my family’s help; to get me to the point that I am at now.  My life is consistently changing for the better.  I have obtained principles and values in life, that I have never had.  I am thankful at my level of life, and I hope I can donate to the field of dentistry by helping people the way my family and friend has helped me.”

After attending dental school for two years, Julian withdrew because of illness.  Still committed to helping people and to science, he took other paths.  Julian became a junior high school science teacher where he distinguished himself with an innovative teaching approach that captivated his students. He also created an award winning science website.

After several years as an educator, Julian gained proficiency as a cardiac sonographer and began working as an echocardiogram technician.  He developed a reputation among physicians as a skilled technician who could be relied upon to test their patients accurately and proficiently. He worked proudly at his chosen profession until his death.

Julian is survived by his three loving children Julia Latting Hicks, Judy Latina Hicks and Justin Alexander Hicks; siblings Tasha Hicks, Tracey Jones Clark (Jerry), Nelson M. Jones IV (Kimberly), Katrina Jones, Kelley Jones, Marietta Meschi (Anthony); parents Herman Hicks and Nelson Jones; grandmother Atherine Hicks; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews, and friends.  His mother Judith L. Jones predeceased him.