DR. EDWARD JAMES HICKS

A Legacy of Faith, Education, Family, and Community

Dr. Edward James Hicks was born on October 18, 1936, in Gainesville, Alachua County, Florida. He passed away peacefully on October 26, 2025, in Indianapolis, Indiana, surrounded by the warmth and love of his family.

Dr. Hicks took great pride in being a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., an esteemed organization founded in 1911, celebrated for its dedication to scholarship, community service, and brotherhood. Additionally, he was a member of the Bachelor Benedict Club and Sigma Pi Phi, known as The Boulé, the oldest African American Greek-lettered fraternity founded in 1904. For more than a hundred years, these organizations have served as foundational pillars of leadership and empowerment within the Black community, and Dr. Hicks made his contributions with honor, fervor, and a sense of togetherness.

Dr. Hicks has made a significant difference in many lives, focusing on faith while empowering individuals and fostering community growth. He received an honorable discharge from the United States Army on December 31, 1965, and went on to obtain his Doctorate from the University of Iowa on August 7, 1968, with a dissertation entitled "The Immunochemical Studies on Penicillin Antibody Activity." His groundbreaking research into sickle cell anemia has played a crucial role in saving numerous lives both historically and currently. In Indianapolis, Indiana, Dr. Hicks became notable as the first tenured African American Professor of Pathology at IUPUI—now known as IU Indianapolis (representing Indiana University's programs), alongside Purdue University in Indianapolis (for its offerings).

While living in Iowa City, he was also part-owner of "The Ebony," a restaurant that provided fuel for your soul. Continuing his entrepreneurial journey in Indianapolis, he served as a realtor and property owner while founding two laboratories, Laboratory Enterprise. After the COVID pandemic subsided, Dr. Edward Hicks received the Circle of Corydon Award—a recognition established by the governor in 2017 to honor Hoosiers who have significantly contributed to enhancing their state and its residents through exemplary service reflective of Indiana’s best citizens.

Dr. Hicks cherished his role as a brother, offering steadfast support and love throughout the years. On August 26, 1967, Dr. Edward J. Hicks married Dr. Rosie L. Burley. As a husband, he built a foundation of partnership and devotion, nurturing a home filled with kindness and understanding. He was a guiding light as a father, instilling in his children the values of integrity and perseverance. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren were his pride and joy, and he shared with them stories, wisdom, and laughter that will echo for generations.

Driven by faith and guided by divine purpose, Dr. Hicks remained an active member of Whitherspoon Presbyterian Church, where he served as a Elder of Session, Deacon and Sunday School Instructor; aided in organizing healthcare services; and participated in outreach ministry efforts. After being compelled by his Pastor and inspired by the new direction of the church, Dr. Hicks even sang in the Men’s Day Choir, along with 20 other Men of Witherspoon, he was ever-ready to serve.  

Inspired by Ephesians 2:10—"For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus for good works which God prepared beforehand for us to do"—he championed faith's significance alongside education, service to others, and civic duty. The legacy left by Dr. Hicks will continue to inspire others.

Dr. Hicks is survived by his wife, Dr. Rosie L. Burley–Hicks.; his children, Evan J. Hicks, Robin L. Hicks–Tucker, and Johnathan C. Palmer-Prichard; his brother, Leon Hicks Jr.; his sister, Ellen Rush; five grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren, who will continue his legacy of love, resilience, and hope. He is also remembered by friends, fraternity brothers, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

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