Jane Elizabeth Driscoll Hickman, 76
We are deeply saddened to announce that the beautiful music and hearty laughter of Jane Elizabeth Driscoll Hickman is now a cherished memory. Jane passed away on Oct. 11, 2023 at BayHealth Medical Center-Kent Campus. Her quick wit, musical talent, and avid creativity will be deeply missed.
Jane Elizabeth Driscoll was born on October 18, 1946 to James Linton "Linny" and Catherine Everista Driscoll, née Lawless, of New Castle, Delaware. She attended Saint Peter's Grade School in New Castle and Saint Elizabeth's High School in Wilmington, Delaware. Jane was blessed with an exceptional talent for music – including perfect pitch. Jane earned her Associate's degree from Mount Aloysius College, her Bachelor's degree from Misericordia University, and her Master's degree from West Chester University, graduating in 1971.
Soon after, she launched a rewarding, 30-year career as a music teacher at Elkton Middle School. Her students were very special to her. As an accomplished musician, Jane was one of the few persons qualified to play the pipe organ in the Tri-State area. She often spent her weekends performing at weddings and church services.
Jane will always be remembered as an independent thinker. One striking example was, in her mid-20s, she decided to sign up for a judo class at the Wilmington YMCA. It was there she met the love of her life, Bill Hickman. Married in 1976, Jane and Bill shared a sharp sense of humor. Jane's large laugh was unmistakable and conveyed her personality throughout any room or event. She was fun, funny, smart, talented and loving. Additionally, Jane and Bill loved and nurtured their many very well-trained dogs together.
Jane is survived by her husband of 46 years, William "Bill" Hickman; her three step-daughters, Carol Hickman, Joann Kuhlman (Garry), Peggy "Tara" Hickman (Dave); three grandchildren; sisters, Marthanne Desmond of Dover and Kathleen Carlin (Frank) of Newark, DE and Naples, FL; brother, James M. Driscoll (Kay) of Gulf Breeze, FL; and a dozen nieces and nephews.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered 10AM at Holy Cross Church, 631 S. State St. Dover, Monday, October 23rd, 2023. A Private Committal Service will be in Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery Bear, DE at a later date.
May she, forever, enjoy her music.
Condolences and Memories of Jane can be shared via www.ambruso.com