Betty Jean Hicks, "BJ", 77, died Thursday, June 23, 2011, at Northstar Health System Hospital in Iron River surrounded by her four daughters, three of her grandchildren, her life partner, and her best friends. BJ was born Nov. 12, 1933, in Battle Creek, Michigan, daughter of the late Luther Bess and Iva Booke. She was preceded in death by her sister Kathleen Lowe. She is survived by her brothers Guy "Sonny" Bess, Kenneth Bess, and Ronald "Pete" Bess, all of Battle Creek; Daughters Kate Faries, Faith Peterson, Holly Harvey, and Amy Brzoznowski, all of Iron River; her life partner and companion James Ghiotto of Iron River; 10 grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren. Love was always thicker than blood in her family and therefore the numbers of extended family are infinite. She retired as an optician, but her real occupation was exploring the country and loving her family. BJ was a traveler in many different ways. She first came to the Upper Peninsula in 1971. She then explored Peoria, Ill.; Karnes City, Tex.; Glasgow, Mont.; New Ulm, Minn.; Greenville, Ind.; New Hampton, Iowa; Lebanon, Miss.; and more locations around the country. But through all this traveling, BJ knew she had found her home, and she always and ultimately returned to Iron River. And though her daughters explored too, they also ultimately found their families here in Iron River. She continued her travels right here in her backyard. She loved rummaging around the country, drives down Bates-Amasa Road, day camping at Sunset Lake, and dining finely and not-so-finely anywhere there was good food and good company. Those who knew her colorful spirit knew she had a wit that could bring tears to your eyes—from humor, or possibly even fear. She was a powerhouse of a woman and people couldn't help but love her. Her legacy lives on in the mannerisms, witticisms, acceptance and big hearts of all who had the wonderful honor of being in her brilliant presence, illuminated by her embracing eyes. Services will be held 1:00 p.m. Saturday, July 9, 2011, at The First Presbyterian Church in Iron River, 525 W. Adams St. A celebration of life will follow at the Paint River. That will last as long as BJ wishes. You can send pictures, memories, links, etc. to bettyjeanhicks@yahoo.com or visit her memorial facebook page. Search Bj Hicks and you will see a picture of her. You may light a candle in remembrance of BJ or leave a condolence for her family at www.JacobsFuneralHomes.com. The Jacobs-Plowe Funeral Home, Crystal Falls, is serving the family.