Juanita Owens Hicks, 92, of Columbia, passed away at home surrounded by her family and loved ones on Saturday, April 17, 2021.

"Nita" was born August 6, 1928, in Darlington, SC, to Henry Owens and Juanita Hall Owens. She was married for 60 years to Colonel Joe Hicks, US Air Force (Ret). During the "Colonel's" 34-year Air Force career they traveled the world every three to four years. They retired to Columbia in 1972, promising never to move their furniture again. During retirement they enjoyed their grandchildren and great grandchildren, attending First Baptist Church, going on cruises, road trips, golf tournaments, and entertaining.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband in 2007 and her brother, Dr. James C. Owens.

She is survived by her daughter, Sandy Helfer of Columbia; son, Jay Hicks (Becky) of Charleston; grandchildren, Kelly Kissiah (Ray) of Columbia, Laura Thomy (Jay) of Raleigh, Justin Helfer (Chollet) of Columbia, Courtney Arnold (Andy) of Mount Pleasant and John Hicks of Aiken; great grandchildren, Harper and Olivia Kissiah, Catie, Ellie and CJ Thomy, James, Lyla and Luke Helfer, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

A private graveside service will be held at Crescent Hill Memorial Gardens.

The family would like to extend their gratitude to MCA Hospice, especially Sue and Cheryl, for their guidance, attention, and loving care to the entire family.

Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, 7600 Trenholm Road Ext., Columbia, SC, is assisting the family.