Alexander Neel Hicks

Alexander “Zan” Neel Hicks, age 43, passed away unexpectedly on November 8, 2022. He was born on April 10, 1979, in Dallas, Texas to Wayne Hicks and Katherine Neel. Family and friends knew him as Zan. In 1996, Zan graduated from Waxahachie High School and went on to attend junior college. He later joined his brother in the construction industry where he began his career designing structural building components. He designed numerous residential and large commercial projects during his 20+ year tenure.

Zan had a thirst for knowledge and never stopped striving to learn more about the world around him. He enjoyed reading, listening to and discovering new music, collecting rare coins, camping, and traveling. He hiked the Andes Mountains in Peru and saw the Northern Lights in Canada. Zan also had a love of aviation and had a goal to attain a private pilot's license. Inspired by his grandfather Chester Neel, who was a pilot in the Air Force, and his Father, who was an airplane mechanic on a Navy aircraft Carrier, Zan logged many hours in the skies over Dallas, TX.

Zan will especially be remembered for his wit and intelligence. He was a treasure trove of historical facts and trivia. He was very bright and he didn’t miss a thing. He would often chime in with a witty retort and a knowing look. Zan will always be remembered for the generosity and love he held for those close to his heart. He was a devoted son during his mother’s long-term illness, providing love and support during her last days. He prioritized family and made an effort to check in on the lives of his loved ones, no matter the distance.

Zan was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents. He was survived by his 3 siblings, Darrell Hicks, Virginia Hicks, and Amber Caraway; 3 nieces, Ashley Hicks, Carley Hicks, and Victoria Hicks; 1 nephew, Riley Hicks. And numerous other relatives and friends. An informal celebration of Zan’s life will be held at a later date.