Jerald “Jay” Hicks, 76, of Imperial died Sept. 24, 2026. Mr. Hicks retired as an English teacher, having taught for Windsor, Jefferson College and Francis Howell. He served in the Missouri National Guard. He enjoyed studying mythology and riding his motorcycle. Born Feb. 19, 1950, in Manila, Ark., he was the son of the late Henry and Jewell (Russell) Hicks and stepson of the late Norman “Jesse” James.
He is survived by his wife: Cheryl (Parker) Hicks of Imperial; two siblings: Lisa (Larry) Fadler of Sedgewickville and Darrell James of Barnhart; a sister-in-law: Katie James of Lake of the Ozarks; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by two brothers: William R. Hicks and Norman K. James; and a sister-in-law: Flora James.
Visitation will be from 5-8 p.m. Monday, Sept. 28, at the Dietrich-Mothershead Funeral Home, 220 N. Main St., in De Soto. Services will be at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 29, at the funeral home, with speakers Alice Lemp and Tom Poeppers. Burial will follow in Shepherd Hills Cemetery in Barnhart. Arrangements are under the direction of Dietrich-Mothershead Funeral Home.