Elsie Vivian Schell

Elsie Schell, age 93, passed away on April 18, 2026 at Perfect Care. A Celebration of Life will be held 2:00 P.M. Wednesday, April 22, 2026 at Bethel Baptist Church. Interment will follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens. The family will greet friends at the cemetery following the service.

Elsie Vivian Whitaker was born on October 16, 1932 to the late Joseph and Burksie Whitaker in Hart County, GA. Her family moved to Americus when she was young. She was the only girl in her family with five brothers which she loved deeply. She eventually met the love of her life, Dan Hicks, Sr. and was married shortly after. They had two children; Diane and Dan, Jr. She and her husband purchased a trucking business in the early 50’s where they dedicated their lives to helping others. Eventually, Dan Hicks, Sr. passed away and she still maintained the business and worked until the beginning of her illness at the age of 83. She loved the beach and the sunshine on her skin. She enjoyed gardening and growing her flowers, so much so she once had a green house in her yard just for her.

She had a yorkie for eighteen years and loved like her own child. He went everywhere she went, even to work with her each day! He was the light of her life for those years, but after he passed away, she poured all her love into her two grandchildren and later on, the great-grandchildren. She loved to cook and try new recipes until her illness wouldn’t allow her. However, she still continued to enjoy reading and looking through new cookbooks. She spent a majority of time on her ipad, trying to keep up with todays world.

She was a giving mother, seeing to her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren had whatever she could give them. She was a faithful member of Bethel Baptist Church and loved her church and church family & friends. Many friends from her church would visit often. She would often say “I loved everyday God gave me and I love to see the sun shining”.

She is survived by her son, Daniel Hicks, Jr. and her son-in-law Gary Reeves. Her brother, Douglas Whitaker. Her two grandchildren; Kelly Gailey (Kyle) and Ginny Short (Brian). And her four great-grandchildren; Colin Gailey (Madison), Gracie Short, Walker Gailey and Christian Short.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband, Dan Hicks, Sr. Her daughter, Diane Hicks Reeves and four of her bothers; Hodges Whitaker, Don Whitaker, Dan Whitaker and Joseph “Joe” Tally Whitaker, Sr.

In lieu of flowers, the family ask donations be made out to Bethel Baptist Church 846 Lane Store Rd Americus, GA 31709.