David Hickey: An Educator and Coach’s Life Remembered

Today was a bittersweet day for my wife, Thomasine, and me as we attended the celebration of life for David Hickey, the former Superintendent of the Citrus County School District. David Hickey held a special place in our hearts, not just as an educational leader but as the person responsible for bringing my wife and me together. It was an emotional gathering that brought back cherished memories and highlighted the profound impact Mr. Hickey had on many lives as well as the community of Crystal River.

Mr. Hickey’s connection to us goes back to my wife’s high school days at Crystal River High School as he was Thomasine’s Assistant Principal when she graduated CRHS. Upon graduating from the University of Florida’s ProTeach program Thomasine was hired as a teacher at Crystal River Middle School where Mr. Hickey had recently become the new Principal. His decision to give a new graduate a chance and bring her on board began her 30-year career as a teacher for Citrus County Schools. It also set the stage for a beautiful love story that began that same school year. I was volunteering with the theater teacher, Tim Stuart, and that’s when I first laid eyes on Thomasine. Two years later we walked down the aisle, and our lives were forever intertwined.

As we gathered to honor Mr. Hickey’s life, the service was filled with those who had been touched by his presence. Pastor Lloyd Bertine of Gulf to Lake Church, a longtime friend and former coach for Mr. Hickey, and Craig Marlett, a former CRHS principal and also a longtime friend and colleague of Mr. Hickey’s, shared their heartfelt stories. The moments of laughter and camaraderie that Pastor Bertine and Mr. Marlett shared were a testament to the deep bonds formed in the Crystal River community.

Mr. Marlett, with a twinkle in his eye, reminisced, “I had some of the best times with David… some I can even share.” Their humorous anecdotes not only lightened the mood but also brought comfort to Mrs. Beverly Hickey and her family who were present to remember their beloved husband and grandfather.

David Hickey’s contributions to Crystal River and Citrus County were immeasurable. He was not just an educational leader, he was a community builder. As we bid farewell to him, we are eternally grateful.

Our hearts go out to Mrs. Hickey and the entire Hickey family. The legacy of David Hickey will continue to live on in the hearts of the countless lives he touched, and we are privileged to be among them. God bless Mr. Hickey and may his memory continue to inspire and bring people together, just as he did for us.

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