Mr. Horace "Flap" Hickey passed away on Tuesday, February 13, 2024 at the age of 74.

A Homegoing Celebration to honor and remember the life and legacy of Mr. Horace Hickey, aged 74, of Columbus, Georgia, will be held on Friday, February 23, 2024, at 11 a.m. at the Spirit, Truth, and Liberty Ministries Church. The service will be officiated by Reverend Thomas H. Mills, Jr., the pastor.

Following the service, interment will take place at Green Acres Cemetery.

A public viewing for Mr. Hickey will be held on Thursday, February 22, 2024, from 3-5 p.m. at the Progressive Funeral Home.

Horace Hickey was born on May 7, 1949, in Columbus, Georgia, to Odies Hickey and Marguirite Williams Hickey. At an early age, he accepted Christ, and later became a member of Spirit, Truth, and Liberty Ministries Church. Horace received his education from the Muscogee County School System, graduating from Spencer High School in 1967. He left a lasting impact in athletics, embodying the true spirit of a Green Wave. Mr. Hickey excelled in football, basketball, and track, demonstrating exceptional skills and sportsmanship that earned him the admiration and respect of his peers. He received multiple HBCU athletic scholarships and continued his education at Fort Valley State University in Fort Valley, Georgia.

Throughout his career, Horace worked as a professional contractor, transportation operations specialist, and personal healthcare aide. Affectionately known as “Flap” and “Bodacious” to family and friends, he was a beacon of love and dedication to his family. Horace was a devoted son, father, brother, uncle, and a committed husband to his high school sweetheart, Cynthia Rome. He embraced life to the fullest, finding joy in every moment and cherishing all that life had to offer.

On Tuesday, February 13, 2024, Horace peacefully transitioned at home, as God called him from his labor to receive his reward. He is predeceased by his wife, Cynthia Rome Hickey; son, Rev. Corey Hickey; parents, Odies Hickey and Marguirite Hickey Gary, and stepfather, Billy Gary. Horace will forever be cherished in the memories of his beloved children: Yvonsha Williams, Erika Hickey McNeil, Yamona Pierce (Justin), and Horace Antonie Hickey; sisters, Linda Jennings (Edgar), Veola Stokes (Deangelo), and Connie Hickey; brother, Byron Hickey (Sandra); grandchildren, Ambria and Alexia Leach, Xavier Huff and Darnell Hickey, Jeremiah, Jayson, Kori, and Kaylah Hickey, Hannah and Leah Pierce, and Britannia Pollard; great-grandchildren, Josiah Pollard, Ryland Leach and Rylee-Raye Leach. Mr. Hickey also had a special partner, Gloria Branch, with whom he shared many joyful years filled with love, happiness, and true partnership. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews, as well as a host of other loving relatives and friends.

May his soul rest in eternal peace.

Professional services have been entrusted to Progressive Funeral Home, Inc., Columbus, Georgia.