Doyle Wayne Hicks, known as "Bus" to his mother and many of those who knew him best, and lovingly known as Papa to his family, passed away surrounded by family on Sunday, January 11, 2026, at the age of 87.

Doyle was born on March 10, 1938, in Gideon, MO, to Comer and Ethel Lott Hicks of Lone Star, MO. He graduated from Risco High School in '56 and later attended Arkansas State University. He proudly served in the National Guard before beginning his career in grain and cotton farming in 1960, laying the foundation for the life he built and the family he supported.

On December 19, 1964, Doyle was united in marriage to his loving wife, Janie Corn, in Malden, MO. Together they built a life rooted in faith, family, and hard work, celebrating 61 beautiful years of marriage in 2025. From their union came two daughters, Misty Murphy and Christi Pipkin (Chuck), both of Risco.

Doyle was deeply devoted to his rural community. He served on the Drainage District #28 Board, the Risco R-II School Board for an incredible 39 years, and the New Madrid County Health Department Board for 53 years, along with many other boards and offices throughout his lifetime. His leadership, integrity, and commitment left a lasting mark on the community he loved.

He was most proud of his role as Papa to his grandchildren: Kelsey Murphy Duty (Brandon) of Jackson, MO; Kassidy Murphy Reeves (Kyle) of Paragould, AR; Ethan Pipkin (Kylee) of Fisk, MO; and Evan Pipkin (Shelbie Britton) of Villa Ridge, IL. He was also a cherished great-grandfather to Madeline Duty, Kreighton and Kiptyn Reeves, and eagerly awaited the arrival of great-grandson Statler Pipkin.

Papa loved fiercely. His grandchildren were his greatest joy, and he poured his heart into teaching them - not just how to hunt, but how to respect life and value tradition. He was honored to take each of them on their very first youth hunt, creating memories that will live on for generations.

An avid outdoorsman, Doyle loved hunting and fishing and often joked about making sure his "deer were fed." He proudly shared stories of his hunts with anyone who would listen, like a memorable encounter with a rattlesnake in Texas. Hunting wasn't just a hobby - it was a big part of who he was.

Stern yet kind, Doyle was a man of strong values, quiet strength, and deep care for his family. He led by example, believed in doing things the right way (his way,) and loved his family with a steady, unwavering presence.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Comer and Ethel Hicks; his sister, Wanda Hicks; his beloved granddaughter, Samantha Murphy; and his son-in-law, Shawn Murphy.

And Papa didn't want the boys to forget: "The animals need hay."

Visitation will begin at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, January 14, 2026 at Landess Funeral Home in Malden. Funeral service will be held on Thursday, January 15, 2026 at 1 p.m. at Landess Funeral Home in Malden with Reverend James Hamlett officiating. Burial will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery in Malden, Missouri.

Serving as pallbearers will be Daniel Presley, Evan Pipkin, Kyle Reeves, Brandon Duty, Chuck Pipkin and Ethan Pipkin. Honorary pallbearers will be Bob Baker, Dale Bueter, Donnie Presley, Dallas Snider, Tracy Copeland, Mark Miller and Kreighton Reeves.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made on Doyle's behalf to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

Landess Funeral Home and Crematory of Malden is in charge of the arrangements.