By Beverly Haynes
Worthy Matron, Joyce Hickman of Lily of the Valley Chapter #12, Order of the Eastern Star, accepted her leadership position in January 2024. Joyce Hickman has been a resident of the Inland Empire since her birth, and is a longtime member of New Hope Missionary Baptist Church where she has worked in the Healthcare Ministry. She has long been active in the community. She is a member of Eta Phi Beta Sorority where she has served as Associate Membership Coordinator and Membership Coordinator respectively, and also worked with the Scholarship Committee. She was also active in the Christmas Toy Give Away serving the Inland Empire.
Joyce Hickman has given many $500.00 Scholarships in her mother’s name, Mrs. Goldie Mae Black, “who was also a Worthy Matron in 1974.” Joyce Hickman is following in her mother’s footsteps. Ms. Hickman volunteered at San Gorgonio High School as a Liaison between students and teachers, she has been a continual contributor to The United Way. She was a Girl Scout in her early years and also was a member of Bea Mac Court and Guiding Light Court of Lily of the Valley. She has also Held an Electa Star Point position and was Associate Conductress, Conductress, and Associate Matron and now Worthy Matron of the Eastern Star, Lily of the Valley Chapter #12.
Ms. Hickman was employed as a Psychiatric Technician, at Patton State Hospital, and became an RN during her 35-year tenure. She later returned from retirement and worked another 9 years as an RN Retired Annuitant.
The Lily of the Valley Chapter#12 events of this year include the welcome of three new members. The 2024 Annual Scholarship Banquet, held on March 17th. A visitation to The Dignity Health Subacute Children’s Hospital where 26 beautiful handmade Teddy Bears were donated. A church visitation on Palm Sunday at Hallelujah Temple in San Bernardino. The Socialites Beautillion, supporting Scholarships in March and a visitation to Sister Opal Hooks viewing to honor her dedication and appointment as Worthy Matron in years passed to Lily of the Valley Chapter #12. Also, Kay Walker a passed Worthy Matron’s Funeral was attended and a memorial ceremony by Lily of the Valley #12 was performed during that service at New Hope Missionary Baptist Church.
Joyce Hickman’s Theme: “To emphasize serving others first and leading through empathy, humility, and selflessness.” Her Motto: “Whatever your mind can conceive and believe, it can achieve.”
Joyce Hickman is truly living up to her convictions and is honored for her dedicated service as 2024 Worthy Matron.
