Born August 5, 1960 in Washington, D.C., Tony was the son of Phoebe Hickerson Rice and William Hickerson, and brother to 12 siblings. At age 17, Tony joined the U.S. Army.  After serving his country, he went to work at Boeing as a Tech Designer in the Seattle area.  During his 34 years at Boeing, he remained close to his East Coast family and friends.

At Boeing, Tony was a proud member of the Society of Professional Engineering Employees in Aerospace (SPEEA), IFPTE Local 2001, a professional labor union.  He became a beloved union leader known for his sense of humor, his passion for justice and dedication to helping those in need.

Tony joined countless SPEEA committees to connect with other members and help raise awareness and appreciation of the union.  Many of today's SPEEA elected leaders are  members Tony recruited to become more involved.

He also served as SPEEA delegate to the Washington State Labor Council and Pierce County Central Labor Council.  Serving on the councils, Tony heard of workers fighting for fair contracts, which prompted him to jump in to action-- walking their picket lines and urging others to join him.  He also showed his solidarity by working labor-union phone banks, lobby days, fundraisers, and conventions.

At Boeing, he made sure to walk around the workplace - checking in with members, welcoming new members and working to get more members involved.  He focused on one-on-one conversations - making sure people felt cared about.

In his community, Tony made sure everyone who needed a place to stay could come to his house.  When they did, Tony let them pick out their own bedroom.  He'd take young people to dinner like they were family.  He said his gift to the world was compassion - he truly cared for others, especially those in need.

Tony experienced homelessness as a child.  One of his stories from that time includes a visit from Santa presenting him with his dream gift, a Tonka truck.  The volunteers with Santa gave out clean clothes, shoes and food while visiting the homeless area.  He would say that's why he still believes in Santa Claus.

"I believe wholeheartedly that why I have a well-paying job is to help my community," he said in an article about him receiving one of SPEEA's top honors, the Stephen Pezzini Helping Other People Excel (H.O.P.E.) award.  The award recognizes a SPEEA member who goes above and beyond for SPEEA and their community.

Tony believed in God and the goodness of others.  Tony went "all-in" by sharing his stories, his faith in God and his ability to make others laugh.  His friendship was a blessing, especially any time you were in need.  He'd find a way to lift you up.

Tony is preceded in death by Phoebe Hickerson Rice (Mom), William Hickerson (Dad), Ricky Hickerson (brother), nephews and nieces, dear friends and a beloved dog called Rascal.

Tony is survived by his wife, Bernadine (Power) Hickerson, his children, Craig Anthony Jr., Natasha Bouey, Bryan (Katelynn), Michael and David (Allynn) as well as siblings Charles, Barbara, Betty, Penni, Connie, Ricky, Charles, Edna, David, Calvin, Herman, and Benjamin, and nieces and nephews who were like his own children.  He was formerly married to Annick Bouey and Dawn Hickerson.

For those who want to honor his legacy of generosity, consider donating to Union Gospel Mission, Seattle, or Tacoma Rescue Mission.