Mary Ellen Hicks

Mary Ellen Hicks, 77, of Benton Harbor, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 9, 2020 at home due to complications of dementia. Mary was born on November 3, 1942 in Benton Harbor to David and Wilma (Clark) Diehl. She is survived by her children, Rayetta Nasseh of Benton Harbor, Judi (Eric) Steindorf of Concord, CA, and Timothy (Shellie) Hicks of Berrien Springs; grandchildren, Aaron and Hanna Nasseh, Ryan, Otto, and Katie Steindorf, and Tyler and Kasie Hicks; and a sister, Charlene. She was preceded in death by her parents; sisters, Jean and Rozella; and brother, Butch. Mary’s family moved to Terre Haute, IN when she was very young, but moved back to Michigan in the 1950’s. She graduated from Benton Harbor High School in 1960. Mary worked as a secretary of Hicks Sign Co. before working as a bank teller for the former F & M Bank in St. Joseph. After a few years, Mary changed bank locations to what is currently Chase Bank in Stevensville. She took great pride in being the drive-thru bank teller forming bonds with many of the customers. She was a former volunteer at Mercy-Memorial and Lakeland Hospital and enjoyed being of service to the community. Mary loved animals, enjoyed crafting, playing cards, being with family, and quilting at the St. Joseph – Lincoln Township Senior Center and Arcadia Village Country Club in FL. Mary was also very proud of the Bunco group she formed with a group of ladies in the 1960’s, which survived for more than 30 years. Since retiring, Mary and her former husband, would spend their winters in FL enjoying the warm weather, sunshine, and the company of numerous friends. A Celebration of Life Service will take place on Friday, January 24, 2020, at 11 AM at Starks & Menchinger Chapel & Cremation Services, 2650 Niles Rd., St. Joseph. A private burial will take place at a later date at Hickory Bluff Cemetery, Stevensville. Friends may visit with the family on Thursday, January 23, from 4:30 PM until 7:30 PM, with the Rosary being recited at 7 PM. Memorial contributions may be made to Alzheimer Association – Michigan Great Lakes Chapter. Those wishing to sign the online guest book may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com.