Willie Gene Hickson was born on June 16, 1944 to the parentage of Sime and Lutishie Hickson in Frisco, Texas. Willie attended and received his education in the Dallas Public School District. Willie professed a love for Christ at an early age and was faithful to his church.

Early in life Willie met and united with Virginia and to this union one daughter was born Hazel Ann Winkfield. Later in life Willie met and united with Rheanettia Bufford his partner for 41 years. Willie Gene worked and retired from the Dallas Morning News with over 40 years of service.

Willie is preceded in death by his parents, Sime and Lutishie; brothers Claude Hickson, Charles Hickson, Sime Hickson, and Cardell Hickson; sisters, Flossie Guthrie, Wanda Sample, and Lorene Griffin.

He leaves to cherish his memory one loving daughter Hazel Ann Hickson-Whinkfield; (4) grandchildren: Erick Cardell Hickson, Clarence Whinkfield, Jr. and Virginia Whinkfield; (10) great grandchildren; (1) brother: Jimmy Hickson (Alma); (2) sisters: Peggy Hickson and Virginia Thompson (Kenneth) and a host of nieces and nephews, other relatives and friends.