Obituary of Essence Hickman

Essence Oshea Whitney Hickman, 30, of Seabrook, NJ earned her wings on October 1, 2016 after her battle with cancer. She was born in Woodbury, NJ on August 22, 1986 to Rhonda Hickman and George Taylor. Essence attended Vineland High School and graduated in 2004. Following high school, Essence attended Fairleigh Dickinson University in Teaneck, NJ where she obtained her Bachelor’s degree in 2009. During her time at Fairleigh Dickinson University, Essence became a member of the Nu Kappa Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated in the Spring of 2008. When joining this illustrious sorority, Essence became a line sister to 4 other ladies, Tina Calderon, Tiffany Singletary, Travara Morton, and Jewlia Thigpen. Essence was also surrounded by a host of other sorority members, some of whom became her closest friends, especially the Sorors of Nu Kappa Chapter. Essence had a personality that was larger than life. She was always living life to its fullest. Essence was sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone she came in contact with, even if only for a brief period of time. She was so full of joy and love. Essence had a smile that was bright enough to light up any room; a laugh contagious enough to infect your soul. She was always a listening ear and a shoulder to lean on. Essence always kept things real, telling it like it was, no matter the circumstance. Essence enjoyed music, especially Jay-Z, dancing, arts and crafts, and spending time with her family and friends. Essence was preceded in death by her maternal grandfather, Thomas Kersey Jr. She leaves behind to cherish her memories, her twin sons Zavion and Zyhir Hickman, affectionately known as the Z-boys; her parents Rhonda Hickman (William) and George Taylor; her maternal grandmother Lena Grinion and paternal grandmother Irene Taylor; siblings Austin Hickman and Nicole Rhodes; her nieces Orianna Hickman and Nyla Nelson; cousins Jherica Moore and Damani Johnson whom she held near to her heart; and an amazing support system that consists of her AKA Sorority sisters, good friend Devona Lewis, Godmother Tyanne Anderson, and Godsister Kelaysha Anderson, along with a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.