Heather Bell
RADFORD – The Radford High School community is mourning the loss of math teacher and mentor Cecil Hickam, who died unexpectedly Aug. 25.
Words of appreciation for Hickam’s contributions to the lives of his students, colleagues and family poured in following his passing, with many students taking to social media to describe the ways Hickam mentored them, taught them to have integrity and always thought about others. In addition to teaching scores of students high-level math, Hickam also founded Students vs. Cancer, a non-profit organization to help students within a 50-mile radius diagnosed with cancer.
“Cecil believed this was one way he could actively help after knowing many students, friends, and family members who had battled this cruel disease,” his obituary reads. “Cecil will forever be remembered by his family, friends, and students as a standard by which to live. He was the model of integrity to all who crossed his path. We are all grateful for our time with him.”
RHS Principal Adam Simpson announced Hickam’s death to the school community.
“It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of our beloved math teacher, Mr. Cecil Hickam,” Simpson wrote. “Mr. Hickam was a valued and deeply cared-for member of our school community. His dedication to his students, his colleagues, and Radford High School made a lasting impact on so many. His presence in our school will be greatly missed, and we know this loss will be felt deeply by both students and staff.”
Hickam’s memorial service is being held today, Wednesday, Review whether service is today (Sept. 1) or tomorrow (Sept. 2) and correct accordingly at Radford University’s Bondurant auditorium, with visitation starting at 5 p.m. and memorial to follow at 7 p.m. with Danny Collins officiating.
