Bonita L Baker-Hicks

Bonita Baker-Hicks, of Kings Mills, Ohio passed away on April 1, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of service, compassion, and unwavering dedication to her community. A lifelong educator in the Kings Local School District, she devoted her career to shaping young minds as a teacher, where her patience, insight, and gentle humor made her a beloved presence in the classroom.

Her commitment to education extended beyond her own students. As a school board member, she worked tirelessly to advocate for equitable opportunities, thoughtful policy, and the well‑being of every child in the district. Her colleagues admired her steady leadership, her integrity, and her ability to listen deeply before speaking.

Though she had no children of her own, she poured her heart into her role as a beloved aunt, offering guidance, laughter, and unconditional support. Her nieces and nephews will forever remember her as the person who showed up — for games, recitals, graduations, and every small moment in between.

She is survived by sister Faye Mitchell of Barstow California, brother James (Gwen) Baker of Florida, sister-in-law Geri Baker of Maineville, Ohio, and her beloved nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews who will carry her memory with profound love. She is preceded in death by her husband James Hicks of Kings Mills, Ohio, parents Arnold E. Baker and Beatrice M. Baker (Sargent) both of Andover, Virginia, and brother Thomas Baker (Geri) of Maineville, OH.

A service honoring her life will be held on April 15th at Shorten & Ryan Funeral Home in Mason, Ohio. Visitation begins at 5 PM with the service beginning at 7 PM. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Alzheimer’s Association (donorservices.alz.org).

She will be remembered for her steady kindness, her belief in the potential of every child, and the quiet strength with which she served others. Her impact will continue to ripple through the lives she touched.