Ronald L. Hickman, Sr.

Mr. Ronald L. Hickman, Sr., 70, of Youngstown, entered eternal rest on Friday, March 13, 2026, at Mercy Health St. Elizabeth Boardman Hospital.

Ron was born on July 18, 1955, in Youngstown, Ohio, to Herman Hickman and Thomasena (née Bowens) Hickman of Conway, South Carolina. He was a proud 1973 graduate of North High School, where he was active in both football and track. During his youth, Ron also enjoyed singing with friends at local talent shows as a member of a group known as “The Deltones.”

Following high school, Ron began his career at Youngstown Sheet and Tube. He later worked for more than 20 years in the press room at U.S. Can Company, where he also served as chairman of the company’s credit union. He was a devoted member of St. Andrews A.M.E. Church and remained actively engaged in the community through organizations such as Brothers United and Three Brothers Production Company.

Ron enjoyed simple pleasures—fishing, cars, billiards, and music, both playing and singing. He was a devoted Pittsburgh Steelers fan, remaining loyal through every season—no matter the outcome. Most of all, he cherished time spent with his grandchildren, family, and friends, finding his greatest happiness simply being together.

He leaves to cherish his memory his beloved wife, Desiree (née Bell), whom he married on August 7, 1977; his two children, Dr. Ronald L. (April) Hickman, Jr. of Cleveland, Ohio, and Amber Marie Hickman of Atlanta, Georgia; and his two grandchildren, Arron Taylor Smith of Youngstown, Ohio, and Ariston Desiree Randall of Atlanta, Georgia. His life and legacy will also be celebrated by a host of loving family members and dear friends.

In addition to his parents, Herman and Thomasena Hickman, Ron was preceded in death by his brother, Herbert Hickman, and his uncle, Robert Bowens.

Visitation will be held on Monday, March 23, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at L.E. Black, Phillips & Holden Funeral Home, 1951 McGuffey Road, Youngstown, Ohio. A Celebration of Life service will follow at 11:00 a.m. Burial will take place immediately afterward at Tod Cemetery, 2200 Belmont Avenue, Youngstown, Ohio.

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