Jenola Hickombottom

Jenola Hickombottom was born on March 27, 1939, in St. Louis, Missouri, transitioned in Dallas, Texas, in the loving presence of her family. She was the beloved daughter of Reverend Porter Thurman Thomas, Sr., and Jeannie Mae (Williams) Thomas (Mother Dear), and the granddaughter of Elnora Beasley (Gran). She was preceded in death by her parents, grandmother, her sister LePorter Addie Ivory-Mixon, her brother Porter Thurman Thomas, Jr., and her niece Verina LePorter Morrow.

From an early age, Jenola accepted Christ into her life and remained a devoted Catholic throughout her journey. She received her education at Marshall Grade School and Charles Sumner High School, later earning a Bachelor of Science degree from Saint Louis University, where she was a proud member of the Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society. Jenola was also a graduate of the St. Louis Police Department’s Citizen’s Academy. In her youth, she worked as a law secretary and held various roles at General Electric, and General Motors.

As a Licensed Practical Nurse, she provided compassionate, comprehensive care in pediatrics, patient education and counseling, medical and orthopedic surgery, psychiatry, chemical dependency, oncology, neonatal and postpartum care at People’s Health Centers, Algonquin Nurses PRN, Deaconess Hospital, and St. Luke’s Hospital. Jenola volunteered to care for one of the first patients admitted with HIV (St. Luke’s Hospital) at a time when fear kept others away. She believed every person deserved dignity, respect, and the highest standard of care, and she lived that belief without hesitation.

After suffering a back injury, she continued her commitment to service by transitioning as a Social Worker for the State of Missouri. Her advocacy extended far beyond her profession. She volunteered as a Human Rights lobbyist with the Missouri Catholic Conference, representing St. Elizabeth’s Church. Jenola assisted clients at the Larry Rice New Life Evangelistic Center, mentored and tutored disadvantaged youth at the St. Vincent Home for Children, and remained deeply engaged in her community as a lifelong member of The O’Fallon Community Development Organization, Inc. in Ward 11 (formerly the 21st), Block Captain, and as a Yeatman-Liddell Middle School Board member.

Jenola was a tireless advocate for education, economic development, and community empowerment. She worked closely with local politicians and civic leaders, always pushing for meaningful change. She proudly knocked on every door in her neighborhood, sparking impromptu conversations about improving the political landscape. Her efforts began with the first campaigns of Congressman Bill Clay, Sr., and continued through her work with Alderman Freeman Bosley, Alderman Antonio French, and Alderwoman Laura McElrath Keys. Jenola canvassed for change with a voice of strength and as a champion for justice.

Jenola embodied the spirit of the arts and nature, having a deep appreciation for all forms of music, dance, theatre, animals, and gardening. She made special appearances at the Opera Theatre of Saint Louis, the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra, The MUNY, The Black Rep, the Lyric Opera of Chicago, and the Fabulous Fox Theatre. She also frequently visited the region’s art and history museums, the Missouri Botanical Garden, and the Saint Louis Zoo.

Above all, she was a devoted mother, a single parent who sacrificed endlessly for her children. She leaves to cherish her memory, Judy Lynne (TL) Ricks, and she poured her heart into raising James Christopher Hickombottom, the sunshine of her life; her grandson, Louis Andrae Williams, Jr, who brought her great joy, and step-grandsons, Trenton J. Ricks and Torrian Lamont Ricks; her sister, Yevetta Tate; her brothers, Rodney (Tammy) Thomas, Eric Thomas, Derick (Rose) Thomas, and Darren Thomas; her niece Kawanna Tate and nephew Khristofer Tate, whom she helped raise; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and community members whose lives she touched. She was preceded in death by her parents, grandmother, her sister LePorter Addie Ivory-Mixon, her brother Porter Thurman Thomas, Jr., and her niece Verina LePorter Morrow.

Her love was steadfast, protective, and profound.

She adored her cats, Salome and Sersei, who were her constant companions and sources of comfort.

Her legacy is one of courage, compassion, intellect, and unwavering service. She lived with purpose, spoke with conviction, and loved with her whole heart. Her impact will continue to echo through the many lives she uplifted.

We love you Mommy!

The family will receive friends for visitation from 10:00-11:00 a.m., Monday, May 4, 2026, at Allen Family Funeral Options with a service to celebrate Jenola’s life at 11:00 a.m.

Jenola will be laid to rest at Wilson Chapel Cemetery in McKinney, Texas following the service.