Billie Sue Hicklin

Billie Sue Hicklin, 91, of Gastonia, NC, passed away on October 12, 2026 at Terrace Ridge in Gastonia, NC. Born April 20, 1935 in Bladen County, she was the daughter of the late Robert H. Kinlaw and Ina Mae Ivey Kinlaw and was also preceded in death by her husband Rev. Robert L. "Bob" Hicklin, daughter Karen Hicklin Ward, and son-in-law Gary Ward.

Billie joined Bob in ministry and shared the responsibilities of leading congregations with him. They began serving at West Mecklenburg Baptist Church of Charlotte, and were later called to Faith Baptist Church of Kings Mountain, NC, and Drexel Memorial Baptist Church of Drexel, NC. After Bob retired from full-time ministry, the couple remained active in their communities, serving where they were called and needed. Most recently, Billie was a member at Gaston Christian Church in Gastonia.

One of Billie's many contributions to her shared ministry with Bob was as an accomplished pianist and organist. Graced with God-given talent, she performed in their churches and at many events and local eateries. Despite no formal training, she became a published artist by composing music and songs and was recognized in the music industry and related organizations. Billie's excellence in playing beautiful music was matched only by her excitement for sharing it; from local gigs to sing-a-longs with her community at Terrace Ridge, she delighted in creating joy through song.

Billie was a lifelong fan of country music and enjoyed cruise vacations. She loved and cherished her family and took pride in seeing it grow throughout her life. Memories of her love, passion, and joy will be treasured by all who knew and loved her.

SURVIVORS: Son: Cliff L. Hicklin (Barbara) of Blacksburg, SC

Brother: Cliff Kinlaw of Gastonia

Grandchildren: Dwayne Ward (Tanya), Daryl Ward (Heather), Chris Hicklin (Kelly Minerva), Andy Hicklin, Jeff Hicklin (Ginger), and Jeremy Hicklin

Great-Grandchildren: D.J. Ward (Stacey), Wesley Ward, Nikalus Ward (Isaac), Destinee Littlejohn (Wesley), Shea Ward (Nick), Ivey Ward, Tristin Hicklin, Macie Tomlinson (Justin), Ian Henson, Sadee Craft, Riley Hicklin, Oscar Hicklin, Teddy Hicklin, Talia Hicklin, and Tate Hicklin

Billie is also survived by 11 beloved great-great-grandchildren.

FUNERAL SERVICE: Saturday, October 17, 2026 at 11:00 A.M. in the Ollie Harris Memorial Chapel with Rev. Scott Patterson officiating

VISITATION: Friday, October 16, 2026 from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. in the parlor of Harris Funeral Home

INTERMENT: Mountain Rest Cemetery, Kings Mountain, North Carolina

GUEST REGISTER AVAILABLE AT WWW.HARRISFUNERALS.COM

ARRANGEMENTS: HARRIS FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICES, KINGS MOUNTAIN, NORTH CAROLINA