Joyce Darlene Hicks, 83, of Poplar Bluff, Missouri, passed away on Wednesday, September 30, 2026.

She was born on January 15, 1943, in East St. Louis, Illinois, to Granville D. Sparks and Eva Catherine (Magill) Sparks.

Joyce was a member of the Church of Latter-Day Saints. She enjoyed sewing, coloring, flowers, and taking care of children. Joyce loved spending time with her family.

Joyce is survived by two sons, Edward Leo Hicks, III, and Jared (Melissa) Hicks; one daughter Linda (Carmen) Pitt; three brothers, Daniel Sparks, Dale Sparks, and Dewey Sparks; ten grandchildren; and ten great grandchildren. She was proceeded in death by her parents, Granville and Eva Sparks; her husband, Edward Leo Hicks, II; one son Eric Hicks; and two brothers, David Sparks, and Dennis Sparks. A host of family and friends survive.

Private family burial will be at a later date. Fitch-Hillis Funeral Home is assisting with all arrangements.

Condolences may be made online at www.fitchhillisfh.com or on the Fitch-Hillis Facebook page.