Christine (Chris) Hickman, 65, formerly of Peoria Heights, passed away peacefully surrounded by her beloved sisters on Monday, December 26th in Ohio.

Chris was born on December 8, 1957 to Mary Ellen (McKeon) Hickman and Robert W. Hickman of Chillicothe, IL. She was born with a caring soul that she shared with the world, a deep love of animals and a steadfast loyalty to her friends and family. She is survived by two sisters, Mary Ann (Hickman) Stoecker of Lancaster, OH and Judith Lee Hickman of Chillicothe, IL, numerous cousins, three nephews, two nieces, six grandnieces and two grandnephews and her two cats, Lestat and Gypsy, of Lancaster, OH.

Chris was a devoted educator for Peoria’s District 150, teaching at Trewyn Middle School, Lindbergh Middle School and Manual High School during her teaching career. Her infamous stubborn streak was an inspiration to her students, refusing to give up on them no matter the struggle and continuing those relationships far beyond the school year.

She was the first in her family to graduate from college, earning her Bachelor’s of Arts degree in Psychology & Criminal Justice from the Metropolitan State University of Denver in Denver, Colorado in 1996 and her Bachelor’s of Science degree in Special Education from Illinois State University in Normal, IL in 2006. Chris was also a 1976 graduate of Illinois Valley Central High School in Chillicothe, IL.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her niece Jennifer Stoecker, her brother-in-law David Stoecker, and the meanest cat to ever walk the earth, Lucy.

Per her wishes, no formal services will be held. She will be laid to rest privately per her final wishes in Rocky Mountain National Park. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the A.R.K. Humane Society LTD, 477 State Route 26, Lacon, IL.

The family would like to thank Dr. Varney and the entire staff of Pickering House and Fairhope Hospice & Palliative Care of Lancaster, Ohio for their outstanding care of our sister, aunt and friend. And a special thank you to Ms. Hickman’s entire Manual “Ramily”, she will always watch over you all!

Send to someone

Share this obituary with others

https://everloved.com/life-of/christine-hickman/obituary/

Copy