Major (Ret) Joseph Hickman

Major Joseph Hickman (Retired), a dedicated U.S. Army officer, loving father, proud grandfather, and cherished member of the Hampton community, passed away at the age of 73 on April 25, 2025, in Hampton, Virginia. He will always be remembered for his generosity and kind spirit.

Born on October 3, 1951, in Kinston, North Carolina, Joseph was the beloved son of the late Pauline Hickman Conwell and Horace Smith. He graduated from Bethel High School and went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics from Norfolk State University. Upon graduation, he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the United States Army, embarking on a distinguished military career marked by honor, discipline, and unwavering service to his country.

Major Hickman held a wide range of critical leadership and technical roles throughout his career in the Army’s Air Defense Artillery and Missile Command. His service took him around the globe and across a variety of military operations. His key positions included Systems Support Platoon Leader, Tactical Director, Battery Commander, Battalion Executive Officer, and Research & Development Coordinator.

He completed extensive specialized training and education, including the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College, Air Defense Command and Control, Material Acquisition Management, the Civil Affairs Officer Advanced Course, and the Senior Officer Transportation Course (Marine Track).

In recognition of his dedicated service, Major Hickman was awarded numerous military honors, including the Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, Army Achievement Medal, Army Commendation Medal (2nd Award), and the Meritorious Service Medal (2nd Award).

Following his retirement from active duty, Major Hickman continued to serve his country by shaping the next generation of leaders as a Senior ROTC Instructor with the Harrelson County School System. His excellence in education was recognized when he was honored with the Teacher of the Year Award.

A man of faith, Deacon Joseph Hickman was a devoted member of Love and Hope Christian Church, where he served faithfully and with humility.

Outside of his professional and spiritual life, Joseph enjoyed creative pursuits, including designing model cities and interior decorating—both of which reflected his attention to detail and artistic spirit.

Previously, Joseph was married to the former Dorothy Green. From that union were born two daughters, Domonique and Danielle Hickman. He will be lovingly, remembered as a devoted father to his daughters, and as a proud grandfather to Samuel E.A. Jackson and Journey Wilson, who brought him endless joy. His legacy continues through them and in the many lives he touched throughout his life.

He is also survived by his devoted sisters Cynthia Massey, Gayle Watson, and Isabell Vereen; his brother-in-law, Dr. William Watson III; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and close friends who will forever cherish his memory.

.It is the desire of the  Hickman  family that you keep them in your thoughts and prayers.

The family of   Major Joseph Hickman (Retired) has entrusted his final care to C. C. Carter Funeral Home.

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