Jerald Henry Wesley “Jay” Hicks was born in Manilla, AR on February 19, 1950 a son to Henry and Jewell (nee Russell) Hicks.  He died at his Imperial home on September 24, 2026 at the age of 76.  He is survived by his wife Cheryl (nee Parker) Hicks, Imperial; his sister Lisa (Larry) Fadler, Sedgewickville; his brother Darrell James, Barnhart; a sister in law Katie James, Lake of the Ozarks and several nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews.  He is preceded in death by his parents; his step father Norman “Jesse” James; two brothers: William R. Hicks and Norman K. James and a sister in law Flora James.  Jay had retired as English teacher having taught at Windsor, Jefferson College and Francis Howell.   Jay enjoyed studying Mythology and riding his motorcycle.