Eva Leona (Simpson) Hickman

Eva Leona Hickman, 84, of Crossett, passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 18, 2026. She was born on October 14, 1941, in Ringgold, Louisiana, and grew up in Castor, Louisiana. At just seventeen years old, Eva gave her heart to the Lord, a decision that guided her every step and stayed with her throughout her life.

For about 58 years, Eva walked faithfully beside her husband as a pastor’s wife, serving the Lord and their church with quiet strength and steady grace. She was a longtime member and matriarch of the First Pentecostal Church in Crossett, where she worshiped and served for 54 years. Eva never sought the spotlight, but her humble spirit and servant’s heart spoke louder than words and touched everyone who knew her.

Her love for Jesus was the center of her life and is what she would want people to remember most. Eva never had a harsh word for anyone and met folks with kindness, patience, and compassion. She was always there for her family, including her church family, ready with encouragement, prayer, or simply a listening ear.

Known for her class, wisdom, and gentle ways, Eva was also an amazing cook who loved feeding her people and bringing everyone together around the table. When things were quiet, you could usually find her with a good book in hand, enjoying one of her favorite pastimes.

Eva Leona Hickman lived a life rooted in faith, love, and service. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness and devotion that will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. She will be deeply missed, yet lovingly remembered, until that joyful reunion in heaven.

She is preceded in death by her parents, James and Mary Hall Simpson; and two brothers, James Ray Simpson and George Alexander Simpson.

She leaves behind her beloved husband of sixty-six years, Rev. Larry Gene Hickman of Crossett; one daughter, Julie Hallmark (Danny) also of Crossett; and one son, Mark Hickman (Michelle) of Mayflower, AR; along with two granddaughters, Abigail Hickman and Katelyn Smith (Caleb); one great-granddaughter, Paisley Smith; and an enormous amount of church family members and friends.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Wednesday, January 21st, at the First Pentecostal Church, 102 Etheridge Drive, Crossett, with Rev. Dennis Anderson and Pastor Keith Smith officiating.  Pallbearers are Todd Williams, Ricky Pruitt, Byron Caldwell, Phillip Jones, Brandon Fitch, and Freddy Hipp.

A private interment will be the following day weather permitting.

Visitation will be from 5:00-8:00 p.m., on Tuesday at the church.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her memory to the First Pentecostal Church of Crossett.

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