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Torez Kenzell Hick’s Life Reflection
On February 22, 1981 in Kansas City, Kansas, the late Patricia Hicks and the late Charles Lewis Sr. were blessed with a loving and compassionate gift in the person of Torez Kenzell Hicks. Torez was the youngest child in his family.
Torez’s educational journey began in the Kansas City, Kansas Public School System where he attended Quindaro Elementary School, West Middle School and graduated a proud Bulldog in 1999 from Wyandotte High School. Torez was committed to bettering himself and succeeding in life. His compassion coupled with his genuine nature for helping others led him to a career in healthcare. Upon completion of high school, Torez attended Kansas City Kansas Community College where he received hours towards his medical certifications. Torez worked at Truman Medical Center for well over ten years. During his time with Truman Medical Center he earned his credentials to become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), Ophthalmic Technician and a licensed Phlebotomist. Additionally, Torez was employed with Apria Healthcare and most recently he was employed at Memorial Hermann Hospital in Houston, TX.
Torez met the love of his life, LaKesha McClain, in 2004. On September 4, 2016 they proudly professed their profound love before a crowd of witnesses, a love that radiated throughout the years. Two beautiful children were born to this union; Olivia Patricia LeeAnn Hicks, 11 and Macey Kenzell Hicks, 2.
As a child, Torez attended New Hope Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of his late grandfather, the late Rev. Moses Williams and fellowshipped with Guiding Star Missionary Baptist Church under Pastor David Lee throughout his early adult years. In 2011 Torez embarked upon a journey that would change the course of his life forever. He united his walk with Christ and joined the Transformation Family Life Center (TFLC) church under the leadership of Pastor Michael and Lady Ra’Qeisha Portley. His passion for God developed a hunger within him for more knowledge of God’s word. Torez was a faithful member. He was an avid supporter and leader in the youth department. He also was a devout member of the Men’s department. Torez was about missions. He took joy and pleasure in planning opportunities for the youth and men to serve in the community. He particularly took pride in the holiday nursing home visits he orchestrated. In 2013, Torez was a proud recipient of the TFLC “Tyrus Clark” Man of The Year award for his outstanding commitment and dedication to ministry.
To know Torez was to love Torez. You never had to question his opinion or what team he was rooting for. To hear him say Go Chiefs! Or Go 49’ers was a common thing. He loved his family, sports, “groceries,” mentoring, socializing and giving back to his community. He had a way of connecting to all that surrounded him. It was not uncommon for him to send a daily message of encouragement or simply check on those he cared about. Annually Torez volunteered with the Salvation Army to raise money and provide holiday cheer to those in need. His love for the youth in his community was immeasurable. In 2015 Torez founded his own non-for-profit community group, Shooting for Hope. Shooting for Hope supports underprivileged youth and provides basketball skills training, character development and school supplies to the community.
Torez quietly transitioned from labor to reward on Monday, September 6, 2021 surrounded by his loved ones at Nexus Specialty Hospital in Shenandoah, TX. Torez was preceded in death by his parents, and his grandparents Essie Wiiliams, Moses Williams and Ruth Roberson. He leaves a legacy of faith and love to the love of his life, LaKesha Hicks, his daughters Olivia and Macey- TX. His sisters and brothers Tricia Hicks - MO, Todd Hicks Sr. (Aunie) - KS, Tonya Burdette (Donald) - KS, Two godmothers Adrian Sauls and Celestine Fakeye, two godsons, Xavier and Kaleb Burdette. A host of nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, cousins and friends. Special thanks to Nexus Specialty Staff, TIRR, Cornerstone and Memorial Hermann Hospitals. Thank you for your labor of love.
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