Dr. David Anthony Hicks, a beloved educator, husband, father and friend, unexpectedly passed away on Friday, September 9, 2022, at the age of 55 in Fort Worth, Texas.
David was born to Alexander and Marilyn Hicks on March 7, 1967, in West Palm Beach, Florida. He studied history at the University of Dallas. He also earned a master’s degree in educational administration and a doctorate in educational leadership from the University of North Texas.
David spent 34 years in education, beginning his career as a middle school history teacher in Carrolton-Farmers Branch ISD. He served as a principal in both Grapevine-Colleyville ISD and CFBISD. David was the Assistant Superintendent of Secondary Academic Programs in Denton ISD before moving to Sherman ISD, where he served the district as Superintendent for six years. During his tenure in Sherman, he unified the community around a shared vision for a new, state-of-the-art high school. David joined Northwest ISD as Superintendent in May 2022 and made an incredible and immediate impact on students and educators in the few short months he worked there.
A self-proclaimed wordsmith, David was intentional in both his words and actions. He laughed often, loved freely, and always had an encouraging word or piece of advice. His kind and caring nature led to instant connections with everyone he met, and he left a deep and profound impression on anyone who knew him.
David was his happiest while sitting in a classroom reading to children, cheering on students during school activities, cruising, or tailgating with family and friends at various sporting events and concerts. His favorite tradition was Texas Rangers Opening Day. The tailgate that once started small in the late 90’s, soon became his pride and joy where all were welcome. David loved to entertain, was the life of the party, and served as “The Glue” that connected so many people over the years. Known for collecting everything from jerseys and memorabilia of his fagister book can be sivorite sports teams to pinball machines, and arcade games, his most precious collectibles were the memories he made with his family and friends. His proudest family moments included witnessing his nephew, Timothy, graduate from Missouri State, watching Aubrey thrive as she began her nursing career, and serving as Keaton’s best man in his wedding. David was looking forward to living the beach life one day in retirement and spending time with his grandchildren as his family grew.
He is survived by his wife, Tammy, with whom he spent 34 happy years; daughter, Aubrey; son, Keaton, daughter-in-law, Maura and granddaughter, Presley. He is also survived by his father Alexander Hicks, one brother, four sisters, and two stepsisters; their spouses, plus numerous nieces, nephews, special friends and colleagues.
Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, September 16 at the Sherman High School competition gym in Sherman, Texas. A viewing will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, September 17 followed by funeral services at 2 p.m. at the same location.
In lieu of flowers, the family has asked for donations to the David Hicks Memorial Scholarship Fund which will be set up through the Sherman ISD and Northwest ISD Educational Foundations. David served as Superintendent in both Sherman ISD and Northwest ISD, where the scholarship funds will be set up and distributed to further support higher education. If you choose to donate, please include a memo to help direct the funds to the David Hicks Memorial Scholarship Fund.
The register book can be signed online at waldofuneralhome.com.
