Clarence Hicks, Jr.
Superintendent of Recreation, Deputy Director, and Senior Manager
42-Year Career in Parks and Recreation
Clarence Hicks, or “C” to many of his friends and colleagues, was a community servant, and impacted nearly every recreational program and activity provided by the Rockford Park District over his 42-year career. He made a difference, and touched the hearts and lives of hundreds of teens and adults in the Rockford community.
About Clarence's Life
After growing up and attending school in Virginia, Clarence eventually made his way to Illinois to attend graduate courses at the University of Illinois in Chicago to obtain degrees in Administration in Parks & Recreation and Therapeutic Recreation. He joined the Rockford Park District team in 1961 as the director of Washington Park Community Center, where he mentored several African American male teenagers by providing guidance and direction. He established the “Miss Washington Park” contest as an annual event for female teenagers, many of whom credit Clarence for motivating them to excel in education and pursue their dreams. “My experiences with Clarence, or Mr. C, were all positive; even when I had made a bad decision, he was always calm, cool, and collected,” said Fines Woodard, Jr., Facility Supervisor, Washington Park Community Center.
Clarence’s talents were also appreciated at Atwood Environmental Education Center, Lockwood Park, and Lewis Lemon Community Rec Center, as well as in aquatics and tennis programs. In addition to serving as Recreation Supervisor, Hicks eventually became Superintendent of Recreation, managing more than 100 recreational programs, from cross country skiing to summer swimming classes to youth sports and Music in the Park. Clarence was responsible for getting big-name performers like Roberta Flack and Gladys Knight & The Pips to perform in Rockford. He was instrumental in the plans and construction of The Getaway at Black Hawk Park, the first teen playground in Winnebago County. When asked what he liked best about his job, Hicks stated, “Every day, there’s something new, new ideas, new concepts, and new people. Always something different around the corner.
Outside of his life in recreation, Clarence was a husband, father of three children, grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin, and dear friend to many. He enjoyed cooking, eating great seafood, and was a jazz enthusiast. He passed away at the age of 77 on February 24, 2014.
Community Impact through Parks and Recreation
Clarence L. Hicks, Jr. faithfully and selflessly served the Rockford Park District from 1961 to 2014. He paved the way for recreational sports and activities in Rockford, and was committed to making a difference.
For Rockford’s African American community, he was a strong advocate for developing community recreation programs that would positively impact teens and young adults.
He had the dream and the vision to enhance the community with safe places for children to play, and programs that kept them active. He once said, “I try to look at it as if every child is at risk. We need to provide opportunities for all children to be involved in good activities.”
Awards and Recognition Received
1990s – Presented an “Appreciation Award” by the Rockford Council of Negro Women, Inc.
1991 and 2003 – Received Rockford Park District Distinguished Service Award
1994 – Received “Public Sector Service Award” by Rockford Department of Human Services
Words of Wisdom from Clarence
Clarence was known for his quick wit, sense of humor, and inspiring words.
“Don’t fill my shoes, create your own.”
“Nothing left to do, but to do it!”
“Keep on keepin’ on!”
Clarence’s Impact on Others
Clarence exemplified the Rockford Park District’s mission statement, “Helping People Enjoy Life,” and as a way to honor his legacy, the Board of Commissioners voted to rename Southwest Community Park to Clarence Hicks Memorial Sports Park. A ceremony was held on July 20, 2019, to unveil the new park signage to his family.
Clarence Hicks Memorial Sports Park is utilized by thousands of youth and teens who participate in the Park District’s youth sports programs, such as NFL Flag Football. Clarence’s memory will live on at the park forever, and hopefully his love for youth recreation, his loyalty, and his character will inspire the next generation.
