On September 12, 2025, my father, Lonnie Drew Hicks, passed away at the age of 83.

He was born on September 6, 1942, on the South Side of Chicago. Writing these words is incredibly difficult, but I want to share a glimpse of who my dad was and why I am reaching out for support to give him the farewell he deserves.

Lonnie was the eldest son in a large family. He lost his mother when he was just 9 years old, but grew up surrounded by resilience and creativity. His father, my grandfather, was well known in the community, playing conga drums and working his way from janitor at a museum to having his art displayed there. My dad carried on that tradition, playing the congas himself. That rhythm and legacy run so deep in our family that I have a tattoo of those very drums, first my grandfather’s and later my father’s, as a way of keeping their spirit alive.

My dad worked hard in school, graduating as valedictorian, and went on to attend Howard University. To stay afloat, he took on all kinds of work, from library assistant, to taxi driver, to even stand-up comedian, stories he retold with pride and laughter. His path eventually led him to UC Berkeley, where he taught as a professor and earned his MBA. It was during those years that he also met my mom, shaping the course of both their lives. Professionally, he went on to serve as CEO of a family services agency in San Francisco and as CFO for another nonprofit organization. He was also a lifelong writer and scholar, publishing over 20 books throughout his career. Earlier in his life, he had been a civil rights activist, dedicating himself to justice, education, and helping others.

If you knew Lonnie, you probably remember his humor most. He could find a way to make almost anything funny. My father was a man who was full of love, though he didn’t always know how to show it. He wasn’t perfect, but he tried his best, loved his children deeply, and carried a sensitivity he didn’t always let show.

He leaves behind his two children: my brother, Lonnie Hicks, and me, Loryn Hicks. In his later years, losing his independence was difficult for him, and I did my best to be by his side and advocate for his care. Now that he’s gone, I want to honor his life with dignity. He never wanted anyone crying or stressing after he passed. He said, “just have a big party!”

The cost of the arrangements and medical bills left behind is more than I can manage alone, which is why I’m reaching out. Any contribution, no matter the size, will go directly toward giving my father the farewell he deserves. If you are unable to give, sharing this fundraiser would mean so much.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for helping me honor my dad, Lonnie, and the legacy he leaves behind.