Emily M. Hickman

Emily Maxine Hickman, affectionately known to all as Maxine, was a beacon of warmth and kindness whose light ceased to shine on May 17, 2024, in Gulfport, Mississippi, just shy of her 71st birthday. Born on May 19, 1953, in Slidell, Louisiana, she brought joy and an indomitable spirit to everyone she encountered throughout her remarkable life. Maxine's early years in Louisiana laid the foundation for a life characterized by love, devotion, and unshakable faith. She was born to the late Alva James Strain and Hazel Yvonne Talley and grew up alongside her two sisters, Tammy and Carrie Strain. Her family eventually expanded to include her cherished daughter, Jana Hickman-Magadia, son-in-law Philip Magadia, and the apples of her eye, her grandchildren, Arrianna and Alexander Magadia. Those who knew Maxine will remember her for never meeting a stranger in her life. Her tenure as a people greeter at Walmart spanned almost two decades and became a testament to her relentless desire to talk to and meet new people. She lived for these interactions, finding genuine pleasure in extending a warm welcome to all. Later in life, Maxine found the Lord, and this newfound devotion transformed her existence. Her evangelical fervor was undeniably magnetic as she endeavored to share the good news with everyone she met. "She wanted everyone to be able to go to Heaven!" family members fondly recall. It's believed that her arrival in the embrace of Jesus was met with jubilation and the divine proclamation, "Welcome home, I've been waiting for you!" Maxine's selflessness was a hallmark of her character. She was ceaselessly concerned about the well-being of others, often putting their needs above her own, even in times of personal suffering. Her compassion extended beyond humans to her adored fur babies, who reciprocated her love and stayed vigilantly by her side. Maxine reveled in the creation and sharing of meals. Her devout attendance at church was a cornerstone of her life, where she reveled in the embrace of her church family and found solace and strength in the Lord's message. Fashionably known as the "Hat Lady," first at D'Iberville Walmart and later at Wiggins Walmart, Maxine was instantly recognizable by her impeccably matched hats and outfits. Her presence brought a sparkle to the eyes of those she greeted, and her conversations never ended without a word about her deep faith. Loving, friendly, faith-filled—these are but a few words that encapsulate Maxine's extraordinary essence. Maxine's story is one of unwavering love—for her family, friends, faith, and even strangers. Her life was a mosaic of selfless deeds, enduring friendships, and relentless pursuit of spiritual fulfillment. She imparted the beauty of her soul onto each person she met, leaving an indelible mark on countless lives. As the sun sets on Maxine's earthly journey, we hold tight to the abundant memories she left behind. Her laughter, her stories, and her unrelenting joy will forever resonate within the hearts of those who had the privilege to know her. While the physical presence of Emily Maxine Hickman may no longer grace this Earth, her legacy of love and faith will never be extinguished. We bid farewell to Maxine, our cherished matriarch, friend, and most endearing 'Hat Lady,' secure in the knowledge that her journey is complete and she is now rejoicing with Jesus.

Trinity Funeral Services is honored to serve the Hickman family in their time of need and we ask you to keep them in your thoughts and prayers through the days ahead. Memorial details to follow.