Elsie Louise Birchette Hicks

Elsie Louise Birchette Hicks, lovingly referred to as “Lou,” was born on April 2, 1935, in Warfield, Va., to Herman Edward Birchette and Sallie Elizabeth Perry Birchette.  She was the 6^th of seven children born to her parents and was raised in Brunswick County.  She was educated in Brunswick County Schools and received additional education and Certified Nursing Assistant Training at Southside Va. Community College.  Elsie received her Christian foundation at St. James Episcopal Church, Warfield, Va.

Elsie was joined in Holy Matrimony to Maxie Eugene Hicks, Sr. in 1951.  To this union, five children were born:  Marilyn Janice (John), Maxie Eugene, Jr. (Deceased) (Iris), Olinda Jean (Donald), Chiquita Babette (Charles), and Sherry Maureen.  She and Maxie reared their children in Danieltown, Va. Elsie was employed for 20 years by Craddock Terry Shoe Company, Lawrenceville, Va.

In retirement, Elsie provided childcare for her son and daughter-in-law’s children, (granddaughters Shannon and Kimberly) and spent a great amount of time in Petersburg, Va.  Being there much of the time, she attended Faith and Hope Temple COGIC with the family, later joining the membership of Faith and Hope.  Elsie remained a faithful and dedicated member there until her death. She served as a faithful member of the Nursing Committee, Usher Board, and Mother of the Church.  Elsie was chosen by the church as a two-time winner of the Outstanding Woman of the Year Award. 

Elsie was the epitome of class, grace, and Christianity.  Her walk with God was evident in everything she did.  She was the most devoted mother and grandmother imaginable.  Memories of her strong desire to lead and direct her children and grandchildren in the path of righteousness will remain with them forever.  Elsie sacrificed daily for all of their needs and encouraged them to be the very best that they could be.  Elsie exemplified faithfulness to God, excellence, honesty, giving, caring, and sharing of herself with others. She often placed the needs of others ahead of her own. Her family has been blessed by her 88 years of life and love.

Elsie was preceded in death by her only son, Maxie Jr., grandson, Donald Jr., and brothers Herman Jr., Maurice, James, and Melvin. She leaves to cherish her memories, four daughters, listed above, 9 grandchildren, Shanda Nicole, John Antonio, Jermaine Anthony (Ronni), Jerome Arkell, Natoya Katrell, Shannon Arlene (Michael), Aquira Cherelle (Brian), Kimberly Michelle, and Tailor Edel-Sheree, 9 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren. She also leaves one sister, Vivian Thomas, and one brother, Donald Birchette (Carolyn).

The family would like to thank First Choice South Home Health. Thank you Sheila Owens for going above and beyond in caring for mom. Thank you to the staff at Dinwiddie Health & Rehab, and At Home Care Hospice for the loving care shown to mom and her family.

A memorial service will be held 2:00 p.m. Friday, December 15, 2023 at Williams Funeral Home & Crematory in Lawrenceville, VA, officiated by Bishop Herman Crockett, Jr., Pastor of Faith & Hope Temple COGIC. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.

May the love and light of Elsie Louise Birchette Hicks live on in those

whom she has so lovingly touched by her devoted and caring influence.