JUDITH “JUDY” HICKSON

1931 ~ JUDITH “JUDY” HICKSON ~ 2021 At the age of 90, Judy, beloved wife of the late Clive Hickson, passed away peacefully at the Medicine Hat Regional Hospital, in the loving presence of her family on December 29, 2021. Judy is survived by her son, Paul Hickson; her daughter, Jane (Michael) Gyorkos; her brother-in-law, Bob (Val) Livingston; and many nieces and nephews. Preceding Judy in death were her husband, Clive (1994) and their son, Bill (2003); parents, Kathleen and Bill Sinton; siblings and their respective spouses, Chris (Dick) Bissett, Sheila (Russ) Dixon, and Bob Sinton; mother and father-in-law, Hope and Al Hickson; sisters-in-law, Faith (Clive) Cowan, Penny Livingston, and Jacquie Sinton. Judy was born in Regina, grew up in Moose Jaw, and was a fun-loving person who enjoyed happy times with family and friends; skating, swimming, dancing and going to the movies. Having grown up during World War II, Judy appreciated simple pleasures during a time of shared hardship. She fondly recalled helping her mom fill shoe boxes with essentials and Christmas treats for her overseas enlisted uncles. Judy graduated from the Moose Jaw Central Collegiate Institute as Student Vice President (1949) and Class Valedictorian of the Regina Grey Nuns Hospital in 1952. An exemplary RN, Judy was recognized by patients and colleagues for her dedication, empathy, and kindness. She began her nursing career in pediatrics and on a polio ward then completed her advanced obstetrics education at the University of Alberta (1954). She worked in labour and delivery at hospitals in Edmonton, Swift Current and Moose Jaw. Judy paused her career in 1962 to care for her family and then resumed working in 1974 as a staff health nurse during the construction of the methanol plant. While working there, Judy completed an Occupational Health Nursing diploma at Grant MacEwan College (1987) and retired from NovaCor Chemicals in 1991. Judy married Clive, her high school sweetheart, in 1956, at St. Andrew’s United Church, Moose Jaw. Clive’s career with Gulf Oil took the family to Calgary in 1962, and in 1967, they moved and settled in Medicine Hat, giving their children the gift of growing up in a small town. Judy nurtured a cozy home atmosphere and happy family celebrations with expertise in cooking, preserving, baking, decorating, and gardening. Judy and Clive enjoyed many travel adventures with family and friends, with the highlight of attending the 1988 Winter Olympics. Judy was a devoted Fifth Avenue Memorial United Church member and held many bonds of faith with fellow congregates, especially with the United Church Women – Unit 6. She enjoyed welcoming newcomers to the church and helping with annual events. Over the years, she led children’s groups and served as a member of the board and the Pastoral Care team. Judy also served her community as a past volunteer with The Medicine Hat Lionettes, The Medicine Hat Police Service Victim Assistance team, and the Victorian Order of Nurses board. Judy had a wide range of personal interests. An adept knitter, Judy spent many evenings with wool wrapped around her fingers and needles clicking, creating items appreciated for their comfort and style. An enthusiastic traveller, whether it was a drive through the countryside or a trip to distant shores, Judy loved to see the sights. She took pleasure in observing the beauty of nature, sunny days, vivid sunsets, and starlit nights. She kept current with world events, always had a good book close at hand and rarely missed the evening news, an episode of Jeopardy or the chance to get together for coffee, a game of cards or lunch with the Birthday Circle.
Judy was a resilient, thoughtful, gentle woman who always had time for a visit and gave the best hugs and compliments. She treasured her relationships and kept in close touch despite the challenges of the pandemic. With a warm smile and a sparkling gaze, Judy would welcome you in for tea, goodies, and a friendly chat. You always felt loved and appreciated after spending time with Judy; her presence is deeply missed.
Judy was a true “people person” with a compassionate concern for the well-being of others. Her natural charm, grace and kindness were things you couldn’t help but notice about her even from a distance. One of her greatest assets was her ability to make friends, many of whom became lifelong friends. Judy made new friends in her final days with those caring for her, and her family is grateful for the excellent care and comfort the 5 West and 2 North care teams provided to their precious mother. There will be a private interment prior to the Funeral Service. The Funeral Service will be held at FIFTH AVENUE MEMORIAL UNITED CHURCH, 476 4th St, SE, Medicine Hat, AB on Friday, October 14, 2022, at 1:00 pm with the Rev. Dave Pollard officiating. A reception will be held in the church hall. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Judy’s name may be made to Fifth Avenue Memorial United Church or the charity of one’s choice. Condolences may be sent to condolences@saamis.com subject heading Judith Hickson. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to
SAAMIS MEMORIAL FUNERAL CHAPEL CREMATORIUM & RECEPTION CENTRE, “The Chapel in the Park” #1 Dunmore Road SE, Medicine Hat, AB T1A 1Z5 (403)528-2599 www.saamis.com inquiry@saamis.com Locally owned and directed CGR Holdings Ltd.