Philip A. Hickok, Jr. slipped the surly bonds of this world suddenly at home on September 25, 2024, in Sun City, Georgetown, TX (or Geezerville as he fondly called it). He was born December 15, 1941, in St. Joseph, Michigan. In his 82 years in this crazy world, he pursued continuous self-directed learning bolstered by a BA in History from the University of Maryland and a Master's in Public Administration, later earned at Auburn University. He had a distinguished 30-year military career as a fighter pilot in the US Air Force, rising to the rank of Colonel. He proudly served his country in a wide variety of assignments around the world. During his service, he received the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Air Force Commendation Medal, a Vietnam Service Medal, the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross, a Presidential Unit Citation, and the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award. His love of flying was nearly matched by his fervor for sharing his knowledge and leadership with the next generation of airmen who would continue the mission to protect our country's security and freedom. He was honored to serve with colleagues from Germany, Belgium, Italy, Portugal, Turkey, Greece, Korea, Thailand, and the Philippines.

He filled his life with worldwide travel, golf, running, some snow skiing, drinking fine wine, toasting friends with an aged scotch, creating beautiful stained glass, and sending a daily blog blast on whatever was stirring in his brain -- some of it even newsworthy.

Phil will be missed by many. His parents, Philip and Anne Hickok, preceded him in death. He is survived by his wife, Jill Hickok, who continues to reside in Sun City; his brother, John Hickok, of Tennessee; several cousins throughout the country; a brother and sister-in-law, Scott and Stormie Williams, of Rawlins, Wyoming; and a loved family full of nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and -nephews.

There will be no funeral or memorial service. Interment of his remains will be at Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, VA.

In lieu of flowers, the family would encourage anyone wanting to express condolences or tokens of remembrance in Phil's honor be sent to support the Wounded Warrior Project or Gary Sinise Foundation.