Obituary of Ruth Taylor Morrel Hicks

Ruth Morrel Hicks, 102, of Morgantown, passed away Wednesday, February 14, 2024 at her home. She was born September 27, 1921 in Milford, TX, a daughter of the late William Lamar and Ruth Taylor Morrel. She received her B.A. degree from Texas State College for Women (now Texas Women' University) in 1943 and M.A. from the University of Illinois in 1946. She married her husband, John Lewis Hicks, Jr. in 1948. She worked at the Extension Division of Indiana University from 1946-1949 and taught in the History Department at West Virginia University from 1961-1975. She was a longtime member of the First Presbyterian Church in Morgantown, where she served as a teacher, deacon, elder, and President of the Presbyterian Women. In 1988, she updated the church history for publication as part of the church bicentennial celebration. She was a volunteer for Habitat for Humanity and the Public Library. She also served as President of the Meals on Wheels Board. She enjoyed theatre, classical music, Campus Club Book Club, and OLLI Life Long Learning Classes. She is survived by one son, Peter Hicks and his wife Barbara. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband, John Lewis Hicks; and sibling, Bobbie Morrel. In lieu of flowers, donations maybe be made to Meals on Wheels, 3375 University Ave, Morgantown, WV 26505. Hastings Funeral Home has been entrusted with cremation arrangements. Friends and family will be received at First Presbyterian Church, 456 Spruce St., Morgantown on Friday, February 23rd from 10 AM until the time of the memorial service at 11 AM with Rev. Zac Morton officiating. A private family committal service will take place at East Oak Grove Cemetery at a later time. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.hastingsfuneralhome.com.