Lloyd Chilch “L.C.” Hicks , 78, of Athens, TN passed away Sunday, May 17, 2026.

L.C. was of the Baptist faith and a member of Meadow Fork Baptist Church. He retired after 23 years at Wal-Mart of Athens. Before that, he worked at Robetts MFG of Riceville, Padgetts Furniture Co. of Calhoun, and several other furniture companies in Cleveland. He loved to go camping, fishing, and taking care of his lawn. He loved his family dearly and enjoyed spending time with them and friends.

He was the son of the late James L. Hicks Jr. and Velma N. Pike Hicks of Delano, TN.

He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Laura Jane Peters Hicks; two daughters and sons-in-law, Velma Elizabeth and Robert Collins of Athens, and Sharon Diane and Chris Yglesias of Etowah; son, James A. Hicks of Athens; two grandsons, James Michael Crowder Jr. of Englewood, and Jeremiah Rogers of Benton; three granddaughters, Laura and Sierra Collins of Athens and Sarah Rogers of Benton; brother and sister-in-law, Lake and Trudy Hicks of Benton; two sisters and brother-in-law, Clara Peels of Old Fort, and Ruth and Terry Mendenhall of Etowah; a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins and many friends to cherish his memory.

He is preceded in death by his parents listed above; two brothers, James and Arie Hicks, both of Benton; one sister and three brothers-in-law, Edna Melissa Freeman, Jerry Freeman of Niota, William Peels of Old Fort, and Albert C. Peters Jr. of Athens.

Funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m., on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, at Cambria Baptist Church with Pastor Ray Ingram and Pastor David Tullock officiating.

The family will receive friends from 11:00 PM to 1:00 PM, Wednesday prior to the service at the church.

Interment will follow the service at Cambria Baptist Church Cemetery.