Diana Lynn “Penny” Hickman, 79, died April 11, 2021, in Statesville, N.C. Penny was born in Evanston, Ill., in 1941, daughter of the late John D. and Elizabeth L. Cooper. She is survived by her husband of 58 years, Harold E. Hickman; her sister, Patricia L. Watts of Wilmington, N.C.; her daughter, Tracie L. Hickman of Raleigh, N.C.; her daughter and son-in-law Carrie M. and David W. Onley of Statesville, N.C.; and several nieces, nephews, and grandchildren.

Penny grew up in Illinois and West Virginia, participating in school activities, drawing, and riding horses. Once married, she and her husband lived in the Midwest, Northeast, and Southeast. In addition to volunteering at her daughters’ schools and at local organizations close to her heart, she worked in healthcare for more than 20 years as an administrator in various medical practices and as a credentialing manager at Davis Community Hospital. An avid reader, she volunteered as a library assistant at Walkersville Public Library in her retirement.

Throughout her life, she enjoyed gardening, bird watching, and arts and crafts. A true friend with great zest for life and great love for family and friends, she will be missed by all. The family wishes to thank all those at Gordon Hospice House and Wake Forest Baptist Health, especially Dr. Jing Li, who have given professional care with such kindness and support.

The family will hold private services. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Penny’s name to the Gordon Hospice House in Statesville, N.C.

Condolences may be left online at www.bunchjohnsonfuneralhome.com.

Bunch-Johnson Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Hickman family.