Edward (Jitter) Melvin Hicks

Edward Melvin Hicks, lovingly known as "Jitter," a devoted family man, veteran, and hardworking electrician, passed away peacefully on July 11, 2025, at the age of 84. He lived a life defined by love, service, and a deep connection to nature.

Born and raised in Rome, Georgia, Jitter graduated from Johnson High School in the Class of 1959. A talented athlete, he earned a football scholarship to the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. However, he proudly served in the United States Army from 1960 to 1964 and continued his commitment to his country in the Army National Guard until 1968.

In 1968, he completed his education at the IBEW Electrical College, launching a long and respected career as an electrician. He owned and operated a successful local electrical business, Riverside Contractors, which he ran with integrity and dedication until his retirement in 2001.

Outside of work, Jitter found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He loved being outdoors and especially enjoyed gardening, weed eating, and mowing grass. He also had a passion for traveling with friends and family on hunting and fishing trips, where he was always known as the smallest man with the biggest catch. While Jitter may have been small, his large presence filled a room, continuously making those around him fall in love with his kind heart, quick wit, and unforgettable spirit.

More than anything, Jitter spent his life caring for and providing for his family. He was a loving husband, an exemplary father, and an exceptional friend who put the needs and desires of his loved ones above his own. He adored his nieces and nephews, who brought him great joy, and he cherished every moment spent with them. His legacy lives on through his wife of 58 years, Donna; his brother, Red; his three granddaughters, Ellie Kate, Presley, and Kinley; his proudest achievements, his two daughters, Wendy (Jonathan) and Stacy (Rodney). Also his extended family; his grandson, Austin Johnson of Tennessee his God-son, Timothy Rolan; and a very special nephew, Eddie Blankenship. His quiet strength, enduring work ethic, and warm heart left a long-lasting impression on all who knew him and had the opportunity to experience his greatness.

Jitter was preceded in death by his parents, Archie Melvin ("Shorty") Hicks and Cliff ("Sam") Pope Hicks; his son, Edward Melvin Hicks, Jr.; his sisters, Barbara Blankenship and Betty Kerce; and his brothers, Billy Hicks and Earl Hicks.

With a well-lived life and an abundance of those blessed by his charisma, Jitter will be deeply missed by his loved ones and all who had the privilege to call him a friend.

Funeral Services will be held  Friday, July 18, 2025, at 2:00 pm at Dykes Creek Baptist Church at 46 Dykes Creek Church Rd NE, Rome, GA 30161. With Pastor Tony Cargle officiating. The following gentlemen will serve as pallbearers; Scott Hicks, Jarred Hicks, Timothy Rolan, Keith Jones, Scott Gistrap, and Greg Gilstrap.

Visitation will be held Friday, July 18, 2025, from 12:00 pm until 2:00 pm at Dykes Creek Baptist Church.
Military Honors provided by
American Legion Shanklin-Attaway Post 5, Rome, GA

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