Marilyn Hickey

It’s hard to believe we’re saying goodbye to Marilyn Hickey. She left us peacefully on April 27, 2026, at the age of 94, leaving behind a legacy of faith, encouragement, and a whole lot of love. To so many, she was a guiding light, a trusted friend, and a voice of hope that resonated across the nation and around the world. I remember once, years ago, she was visiting our church and noticed a little girl struggling to color inside the lines during Sunday school. Instead of correcting her, Marilyn knelt down, looked her right in the eye, and said, "Sweetheart, sometimes the most beautiful things are a little bit messy. Don't be afraid to let your colors shine, even if they go outside the box." That was Marilyn in a nutshell – always seeing the beauty in imperfection, always encouraging us to be our authentic selves. Marilyn’s life was a testament to her unwavering faith and her passion for sharing the Word of God. For decades, she ministered through television, radio, and countless Bible studies, touching the lives of millions. But beyond the national stage, she was a devoted wife to Jack, a loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Family was everything to her. I’ll never forget the twinkle in her eye when she talked about her children and grandchildren – they were her greatest joy. She always made time for them, whether it was baking cookies, attending their games, or simply offering a listening ear and a warm hug. She had this incredible ability to make everyone feel seen and valued, like they were the most important person in the room. She wasn’t just a teacher; she was a motivator, a cheerleader for the soul. Marilyn had this infectious enthusiasm for life and a genuine belief in the power of prayer and positive thinking. She loved gardening, finding solace and inspiration in the beauty of nature. And oh, how she loved to laugh! Her laughter was truly contagious, filling any room with warmth and joy. She taught us to embrace challenges, to find the good in every situation, and to never give up on our dreams. Marilyn’s impact on the world is immeasurable. She leaves behind a vast community of people whose lives were enriched by her wisdom, her kindness, and her unwavering faith. We will miss her dearly, but we’ll carry her spirit with us, striving to live our lives with the same grace, compassion, and unwavering belief in the power of love that she exemplified every single day. Rest in peace, dear Marilyn. You were truly one of a kind.