Introduction
James (Jim) Clifford Hicks left an indelible mark on the city of Boise, Idaho, where he lived most of his life. Born on November 13, 1942, he passed away from a sudden stroke on December 22, 2024. At 82 years old, Jim was a man who wore many hats—teacher, husband, father, grandfather, friend, and adventurer. Each role was performed with kindness and commitment, reflecting his unwavering passion for education and community.
Early Years in Boise
Jim was born in Ontario, Oregon, to D. Loren and Jewell Hicks. Two years later, the family moved to Payette, Idaho, and then to Boise, where Loren continued his career in the Boise School District. Jim’s mother, Jewell, was dedicated to caring for Jim and his brother, Stan. Growing up in Boise, Jim attended local schools and graduated from Boise High in 1960. This upbringing fostered a deep-rooted connection to the city he would serve for decades.
Education and Career
After high school, Jim spent two years at Boise Junior College. Eager to explore his potential, he moved to Seattle, Washington, to practice architecture. During his time in Seattle, Jim met his first wife, Lois Pierson; together, they eventually returned to Boise. In 1969, he completed a degree in education from Boise College, setting the stage for a long, fulfilling teaching career in the Boise School District.
Jim spent 32 years shaping young minds at Collister Elementary and Jackson Elementary. He loved teaching sixth grade and coaching various sports, introducing students to the joys of teamwork and physical activity. Even as Boise expanded and changed around him, Jim remained a constant presence in the classroom—supportive, patient, and dedicated.
Family Life and Adventures
During these years, Jim and Lois welcomed two daughters: Karen Hicks and Janet Hicks Beaton. In 1989, Jim’s life took a new turn when he married Jolayne Merritt, forming a blended family that included Jolayne’s children—Tracy, Tom, and Sean. Together, Jim and Jolayne discovered a shared passion for travel, often riding motorcycles or adventuring in their motorhome to explore scenic byways and distant horizons.
Retiring from teaching in 2000, Jim began a new hobby—golf. He enjoyed hitting the links with his brother Stan and a circle of friends, most of them fellow educators. Golfing became a regular ritual for Jim, remaining a cherished pastime until just a few days before his passing.
Survived By
Jim is survived by:
• Wife: Jolayne
• Brother: Stan (Marla) Hicks
• Daughters:
• Karen (Sorin) Hicks
• Janet (Robert) Beaton
• Stepchildren:
• Tracy Merritt
• Sean Merritt
• Grandchildren:
• Katie (Ted) Duman
• Jordan (Emma) Merritt
• Jeffrey Merritt
• Carissa Nelson
• Andrew Beaton
• Jennifer Beaton
He was preceded in death by his parents, D. Loren and Jewell Hicks, as well as his son, Tom Merritt.
Community Ties and Lasting Legacy
For more than three decades, Jim poured his heart into the Boise School District, helping shape the academic and athletic pursuits of countless students. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Jim’s love of family and adventure resonated with everyone who knew him. He led by example, showing that compassion and dedication remain at the core of any meaningful life.
Jim’s blend of patience, humor, and curiosity endeared him to neighbors, colleagues, and students alike. Whether it was introducing a new sport to his class, taking his family on a weekend camping trip, or hitting the golf course with friends, Jim approached each activity with enthusiasm and sincerity.
Final Farewell
Services are being coordinated by:
Alden-Waggoner Funeral Chapel and Crematory
5400 W. Fairview Avenue
Boise, Idaho
The Hicks family extends their deepest gratitude to the ICU staff at St. Luke’s Meridian for their professional and compassionate care in Jim’s final moments. In lieu of flowers, donations to a chosen charity or planting a tree in Jim’s honor are appreciated as living testaments to his generous spirit. You can also visit the Sympathy Store to find more ways to honor Jim’s life.
Conclusion
James (Jim) Clifford Hicks’s journey—from Ontario, Oregon, to Payette, then to Boise—reflected a lifetime dedicated to growth, learning, and the people he loved. He will be fondly remembered for his years of service in the Boise School District, the adventures he embarked on with Jolayne, and the warmth he brought to every interaction. As his legacy continues through family and friends, may we all strive to exemplify the kindness and commitment Jim displayed throughout his remarkable 82 years.
“To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow.”
– Audrey Hepburn
May Jim’s memory inspire us to keep planting seeds of kindness, growth, and adventure in our own lives. Stay up to all future posts that we have here.
