John Ivan Hickman Jr., a devoted god-fearing family man, honorable veteran, talented entrepreneur and passionate supporter of the Georgia Bulldogs, passed away at the age of 69 on August 20, 2023. He will be greatly missed by his loved ones, but his spirit and teachings will continue to guide them.

Born on February 14, 1954 in Chicago, Illinois, John was raised in a loving family and developed a strong work ethic and kind-hearted nature from an early age. He grew up in a household filled with love and strong values, instilled in him by his late mother Claudia Stephens. John joined St. Paul Baptist Church in Woodville, GA in his younger years. John's journey took him to the University of Georgia, where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Education degree with a major in Recreation & Leisure Studies. He embarked on a rewarding career in leisure services with the East Athens Community Center and later became the leisure services director in his late mother's hometown in Greensboro, Georgia.

He was also a proud member of the Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity. He embodied the fraternity's principles of brotherhood, scholarship, and service, and his contributions will continue to positively impact others for years to come. Through his work, he touched countless lives, bringing joy and filling the community with happiness. John's commitment to service extended beyond his professional life.

He served his country with honor and valor, proudly defending his fellow Americans as a veteran. His dedication and sacrifice will be forever remembered and appreciated. John's entrepreneurial spirit led him to become the proud owner of Autograph World. He poured his heart and soul into his work, creating beautiful sports memorabilia pieces of the UGA football games.

John showed his children that running your own business is possible by putting forth the time and dedication to perfect your craft. His skillful hands and creative eye brought cherished memories to life, creating keepsakes that will be treasured for generations.

John was also proceeded in death in addition to his mother, a brother; Jerome Hickman; sister; Sandra Hickman; his grandparents; the late Lozell Stephens Sr., and Beatrice Stephens, and other extended family members that have gone before him. As much as John achieved professionally, his greatest joy in life was his children.

He is survived by his two loving children, Tobias Hickman of Athens, Georgia and Felicia White [Bryan] of Bogart, Georgia. Their presence filled his life with love and purpose, and he took every opportunity to guide, support, and celebrate their accomplishments. He also leaves behind, Father, John Hickman Sr. of Washington D.C.; sister, Sherri Jones [Samuel Jones Jr.] of Saukvillage, IL; four adored grandchildren, Cameron, Taylor, Josiah, and Ashton who meant the world to him and a host of nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, extended family members and friends. He cherished every moment spent with family and friends, filling their lives with love, guidance, and wisdom. His legacy will live on through the values he instilled in all he knew.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to John's devoted friend's Wayne Fairfax, Earl Zollicoffer, and Jeanette Butler for their unwavering support and presence during John's journey. Their friendship throughout the years provided strength during difficult times and will forever be treasured. A special thanks to Takeisha "GiGi" for coming into John's life towards the end and bringing a lot of laughter, love and cherished memories created with John and his son, Tobias. In John's own words, he believed in taking one day at a time and striving to be the best version of oneself. He led by example, showing kindness, generosity, and determination to those around him. His wisdom and guidance will continue to inspire and shape the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A private memorial service in honor of John's life will be held in Canton, GA at the Georgia National Cemetery on August 28th, 2023 at 11:30 am to celebrate his remarkable life and share stories of his remarkable journey. The family of John Ivan Hickman Jr. sincerely thank you for your expressions of sympathy. John's legacy of love, strength, and perseverance will live on through the memories and lives he touched. May his soul find eternal peace, and may we carry forward his teachings as we strive to be the best versions of ourselves.

Arrangements by Jackson-McWhorter Funeral Home. www.jacksonmcwhorterfuneralhome.com