Longtime Bend, Texas Resident James Earnest Hicks Passes Away at 88

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James Earnest Hicks, a lifelong resident of Bend, Texas, passed away on February 28, 2026 at the age of 88. Hicks was a welder by trade and in later years enjoyed trapping wild hogs. He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Orabeth, as well as his three children, several grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and siblings.

Why it matters

Hicks was a pillar of the Bend community, having been involved in local organizations and activities over the course of his long life. His passing marks the end of an era for the small Texas town.

The details

Hicks was born in Lampasas County in 1937 and spent most of his life in Bend. He graduated from Lampasas High School in 1955 and married Orabeth Landers in 1960. Hicks was drafted into the Army in 1960 and served until 1962. Over the years, he was a member of the Texas Young Farmers and served as the president of the Bend Community Association. Hicks worked as a welder for many years and in his later years enjoyed trapping wild hogs.

• James Earnest Hicks passed away on February 28, 2026.
• A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, March 15, 2026 at Bend Methodist Church.

What’s next

The celebration of life for James Earnest Hicks will be held on Sunday, March 15, 2026 at Bend Methodist Church.