Julia T. Hicks

Julia T. Hicks, 87, of Warren, died Thursday, December 22, 2011 at Autumn Hills Care Center in Niles. She was born August 16, 1924 in Buffalo, N.Y., the daughter of Vincent H. and Eva (Pfalzer) Schwartz, and had lived in Trumbull County most of her adult life.

After attending Northwestern University, Mrs. Hicks moved to Ohio, where she became the co-founder of Lee's Appliance, first located in Leavittsburg before moving to its current location in Center of the World. Later, she became the first woman automobile salesperson in the area, and retired as office manager for Dunn's International Auto Body.

A member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, she was past-president of the Warren Emblem Club, past-president of the Terrace North Condo Association, a member of the Fifth Wheel Club, the Warren City Federation of Women's Clubs and many other organizations. Active in politics, she had served as a Democratic Party precinct committeewoman, as a member of the party executive committee, as past-president of the Trumbull County Federation of Democratic Women, was a member of the Warren City Democrats and worked on numerous local and state political campaigns. She was an avid fan of the Indians, Browns, and Buffalo Bills.

Surviving are two children: Attorney Gregory V. Hicks (Jean Corliss) and Cynthia (Edward) Gorse, both of Warren; a stepson, Larry (Janet) Hicks of Howland; two granddaughters: Juliann and Stephanie Gorse; three sisters: Eleanor Colpo of York, Pa., Virginia (Ken) Martin of Strykersville, N.Y., and Carol McKernan of Lancaster, N.Y.; two brothers: Raymond (Jean) of Scarsdale, N.Y. and Dr. Gerald (Jacqueline) Schwartz of Orchard Park, N.Y. and numerous nieces and nephews. A brother, Arthur Schwartz, precedes her in death.

Services are 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, December 28, 2011 at St. Joseph's Catholic Church, 420 North St. N.W., Warren, Ohio 44483, with Fr. Christopher Henyk officiating. Friends may call 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. Tuesday at McFarland & Son Funeral Home. The Warren Emblem Club will hold a memorial service at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, material contributions may be made either to Hospice of the Valley, 5190 Market St., Boardman, Ohio 44512, or to the donor's favorite charity.

Arrangements are entrusted to McFarland & Son Funeral Services Co., 271 N. Park Ave., Warren, Ohio 44481. Please visit www.mcfarlandcares.com to view this obituary and send condolences.