Gladys Margret Epps Briggs was born on August 14, 1929, in Richmond, VA to the late Lucille Epps Browning. She grew up in the Richmond, VA area and matriculated through the local school system. As a teenager, she began working as an elevator operator at a local department store.

She later moved to Manhattan, New York, where she got a job working at the Joseph Love and Company Dress Factory. A few years later she started
working in housekeeping at the Doral Park Hotel, where she remained in service for thirty-six years. During her time there, she was recognized several
times for being a stellar employee and a hard worker. She met and married her late husband, Herbert Hicks, in 1967.

While in New York, Gladys accepted Christ and joined Convent Avenue Baptist Church and, years later, Fountain Springs Baptist Church. She was a devoted member and enjoyed serving diligently at both ministries. After retiring in 1992, she relocated to Augusta, GA, to join her daughters, Gayle and Brenda. As a retiree, she started a small business keeping children during the work day and had a hand in raising many during their developmental years.

She joined Macedonia Baptist Church in 1994 and
served on the Deaconess board and various other ministries, including the Loving Christian Workers. She later joined Tabernacle Baptist Church, where
she was loved by many and known for her stylish outfits and matching hats. She was a loving and devoted mother and grandmother who stood firmly on
her faith and made a lasting impact on everyone she encountered.

She leaves to cherish her memory: two daughters, Gayle (William) McLaughlin and Brenda (Elliott) Stevens of Augusta GA; grandchildren, Elliott (Chaunta) Stevens, Atlanta, GA, Trey McLaughlin, Augusta GA, Tiffany McLaughlin, New York, Shanita Newton, Augusta, GA, Donald Ross, Atlanta, GA); great granddaughter, Jada Stevens, Atlanta, GA; niece, Helen Campbell, Richmond,VA; and a host of great nieces, nephews, cousins, adopted grandchildren, and friends.

A celebration of life will be held Friday, June 6, 2025 at 2:30 p.m. at Tabernacle Baptist Church, 1223 Laney Walker Boulevard, Augusta, Georgia 30901.

Family will receive friends Thursday, June 5, 2025 from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

Kinsey & Walton Funeral Home, 3618 Peach Orchard Road, Augusta, Georgia 30906 (706)790-8858.