Brenda Smith Hickson Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

On Sunday, May 15, 2022, our Heavenly Father rewarded Brenda Smith Hickson with wings in her 81st season. Brenda Joyce Smith’s sunrise was November 07,1940, in Portsmouth, VA. She was the first of two daughters of Sally Blizzard Smith and John Henry Smith. Brenda was a strong, confident, smart and loving child. Shepherded by her scholastic mother and spiritual father Brenda developed an undeniable thirst and enthusiasm for learning. Early on her interests and passion included dance, music, fashion, and education. Simply put, she embraced life and lived it to the fullest. Forever believing, Brenda started her spiritual journey at Fourth Baptist Church where her faith in Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior matured. She went to Douglass Park elementary school, I. C. Norcom High school, Hampton University and later graduated from Norfolk State University in 1969 obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Business Education. While in college, Brenda pledged Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated and crossed the burning sands on 04/10/1968. After graduating she embarked on a career in Education, working at Elizabeth City State University, Ruffner Middle School, ending up at Booker T Washington High School where she taught Business Education until she retired. College was also where Brenda met a handsome and suave young man named James Edward Hickson, Jr with whom she fell madly in love. They were married after a passionate courtship on March 7, 1962. The beautiful couple moved to New York City. To this union was born one son, Michael James Hickson. This bond between mother (Brenda) & son (Michael) was like no other. Michael was Brenda’s world. Nothing and no one could come between them. Following in the steps of her parents, Brenda poured everything she had into her son, advancing him spiritually, physically, socially and academically. Brenda and her son Michael shared a love of music, dancing, people and travel. Brenda moved back to Virginia in 1964 to complete her college instruction. She continued her career in education while joining several social groups and community organizations. Brenda gave of her time to others freely. She believed in order, freedom, equality and respect. Brenda was never too busy to lend a helping, caring hand. Marked by her deep-rooted family beliefs & commitment, she counted caring for both of her paralyzed parents in the home while still sending her son to medical school among her greatest accomplishments. During the years before her sunset, Brenda struggled and battled through heart failure. Remarkably, while never surrendering, she inspired others, maintained her faith in God and cherished the love of her family, friends and especially her beloved son Michael. She leaves to mourn her passing, to remember her works and to look for her in hope, in a home beyond this world, a loving son, Michael James Hickson MD, a daughter-in-law, Yolanda R Renfroe MD, a stepson Dwayne Hickson (Debra), 3 step grandchildren Thias (Kelii), David Michael (Vanessa) and Ryann, 2 step great grandchildren, Melannie and Zyann, one sister Jacqueline Blanchard, a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles, godchildren and lots of caring & committed friends and acquaintances. Rarely has God given so much to many people through one woman.

Brenda Smith Hickson

November 7, 1940 - May 15, 2022