Leila Caroline Hickman

Leila Stevens Hickman passed away on January 2, 2019, in Post Falls, Idaho.  The daughter of Herbert and Olive Stevens, she was born on the family farm in Worley, Idaho, on October 23, 1925. 

After graduating from Worley High School, Leila attended Lewiston Normal School where she earned her teaching credential. Leila taught in Castle Rock and Colville, Washington, before marrying Dale Hickman, also of Worley, at the Stevens ranch house in 1947.  While continuing her career as a teacher in Plummer, Idaho, Leila had three children: Vaughn Hickman of Sun City West, Arizona; Kent Hickman, of Albuquerque, New Mexico; and Carolyn Cooper, of Worley.  She is also survived by six grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. 

In 1956, Leila, Dale and their children moved to Yucaipa, California, where they lived until their retirement in 1974.  They then moved back to Rockford, Washington, where Leila lived until Dale’s passing in 2003.  Leila and Dale enjoyed travel and camping with friends, completing trips to Alaska and throughout the Western U.S.  In retirement, Leila became an avid, award-winning quilter and fashioned cherished quilts for all of her grandchildren as well as many other relatives and friends. 

In later life, Leila was affected by dementia.  While her memory suffered, Leila’s spirit did not.  She maintained her loving, giving, accepting, and positive outlook toward life.  Leila continues to be loved and an inspiration to her family and to those who knew her.

The family wishes to thank all the staff of Guardian Angel Homes in Post Falls as well as Dr. Blair Lindblad and Hospice of North Idaho for their wonderful care.  A celebration of Leila’s life is planned for August 1st at the Rockford Methodist Church.  Rather than flowers, those wishing to make a gift in Leila’s memory may contribute to Hospice of North Idaho or to the Rockford Methodist Church.