James Allen Hickman, 52, of Bedford, Texas, went home to be with the Lord on March 14, 2026. His nickname was “Gator,” a name given to him by his Uncle Ted. He was born on March 30, 1973, in Fort Worth, Texas, to Adron Duane Hickman and Barbara Nell Martin. James was a devoted husband, father, son, brother, uncle, nephew, cousin, and friend. He had a heart bigger than Texas and a spirit full of love, kindness, and compassion. His life was a reflection of faith, perseverance, and deep devotion to his family. He is survived by his wife of 33 years, Shonnese Hickman; his children, Travis Kyle Murphy, Tyler Paige Hickman, and Zackary James Hickman; and his five grandchildren. He is also survived by his mother, Barbara Nell Martin; his mother-in-law, Michelle Gable; his brothers, Anthony and Kenneth Hickman; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Ted and Eunice Hickman, and Eustus Saeton and Mary Ethel Griffin; his father, Duane Hickman; his father-in-law, Rick Gable; his uncles, Ted and Larry Hickman; and his beloved cat, Rosco Hickman. James proudly served in the United States Army Reserves from 1991 to 1999 and was honorably discharged. James was a faithful provider who always put his family first. No matter the hardship, even if it meant walking to work, he did whatever was necessary to care for those he loved. At the age of 39, he faced a life-altering spinal cord injury that left him temporarily paralyzed. Through the grace of God and the skill of his surgeon, Dr. Douglas Dixon, he was able to walk out of the hospital just 11 days later—a testament to both his strength and God’s healing hand. Though that trial changed the course of his life, it never changed his love, his faith, or his devotion to his family. He carried that weight with quiet strength, trusting in God through it all. Words cannot fully express how deeply he is missed. While our hearts are heavy, we find comfort in knowing he is at peace, restored, and walking in the presence of the Lord. His light, love, and legacy will live on in all who knew him. James loved fiercely and wholeheartedly. He was a true blessing to his family and will forever be remembered as a devoted husband, a loving father, and a man of enduring faith.