William “Kelah” Hicks, Jr. 71, was born on Sunday, July 11, 1954 and passed on Monday, November 24, 2025.
Funeral Arrangements:
Memorial Service: Thursday, December 4, 2025 | 1:00 pm
Place of Service: Holloway Memorial Funeral Home, 2502 NC Hwy 55, Durham, NC.
Send an encouraging word to the family to express your condolences while they grieve at this time.
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Condolences to the family.
My prayers are with you
Words don't express what a good friend and coworker you were. You were always a straight shooter and speak your mind. That's one of his awesome qualities as a friend. You will be missed. Prayers for family
Sending prayers and condolences to the family. Rest in Peace Kelah.
I was deeply saddened to hear of Kelah's passing. I had the privilege of working with him for many years at UNC-Chapel Hill, and his presence was unforgettable. His booming voice, big smile, trademark hat, and boisterous laugh always filled the building—you always knew when Kelah was around. Though I hadn't seen him since his retirement, I often thought about reaching out, and regret that life got in the way.
Kelah's memory is a reminder to make time for the things we feel led to do, and to cherish the people who bring joy into our lives. He will be remembered with warmth and gratitude. My heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and all who loved him.
My condolences to his family and friends
I would like to send my condolences, prayers, and love to all family and friends. Rest easy Kelah.
Kelah you will be truly missed
To the entire family of "Kelah", my classmate, schoolmate, friend, and fellow graduate of Cary High School, class of 1972. My heart was deeply sadden to learn of William's passing. Although we rarely saw each other after high-school, on the rare occasions that we were in the presence of each other, it was as if we never missed a beat He was indeed a friend of mine! You are all on our hearts and in our prayers! The Lord strengthen, comfort, and give you peace during this very difficult time of loss. With Sympathy and Caring, Deborah & Randolph Burwell
My deepest condolences to the family🙏
God bless Carol and family in this time of grief. May He comfort you and provide you with peace. He, alone, is our only constant, and we're so grateful. Love and God Bless!
Kalaha and I have been friends for a long time. Our families were close. My condolences to the family.
I met William on my first day of class in the first grade in 1960. He and I became childhood friends we played together, threw spitballs, skipped classes and fought but remained friends until we graduated high school. I hadn't seen him in 53 years and was saddened to learn about his passing. My deepest sympathies to his family members and loved ones! Please remember that we loved him but God loves him best....R.E. Burwell
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