ST. JOHN'S, N.L. — Thomas Valentine Hickey dedicated his life to serving Newfoundland and Labrador.
Hickey died Thursday at the age of 86.
Born in Outer Cove, Hickey studied at Memorial University before working for the Department of Social Services, as a sales representative for British American Oil and as the owner of a grocery store. He worked at the United States Air Force base at Fort Pepperell before beginning his political career on the town council in Placentia.
Hickey served six terms as a member of the House of Assembly, with a number of cabinet appointments during his time.
Progressive Conservative Leader Ches Crosbie says Hickey held his positions with dignity throughout his career.
"It is honourable to serve the people in the House of Assembly and to shoulder responsibilities in cabinet, and Tom Hickey did both with dignity over the course of two decades from 1966 to 1985,” Crosbie stated in a news release.
“He was one of the members who was part of the change in administration from Liberal to PC in the early ’70s, and he retained a lifelong interest in the political affairs of our province. To his family and friends, on behalf of our party, I extend our sincere sympathies as we mark his passing."
Former premier Brian Peckford says Hickey’s time as minister of social services showed the depth of his knowledge and commitment to the province.
Peckford recalled a meeting of ministers of social services from across the country, where Hickey had to be quick on his feet.
“I think he was a little late getting to the conference. All the ministers were seated around the big table, about to get going on a bunch of social issues. Tom came in about five minutes before things got started. His officials were a little nervous about it. They were nervous about it, but Tom was his own man,” Peckford said.
“He was asked for his opinion on a particular social issue that was current at the time, and without any notes or anything else, Tom launched into his response, which went on for 15 or 20 minutes. When he was finished, everyone around the table looked with mouths open, startled by the insightful and competent response that he gave. I remember later some of the officials in the department and others, a lot of people were amazed that he could go off the cuff and be so coherent and knowledgeable about the issue.”
Peckford says Hickey’s political longevity is a sign of that ability.
“He was very quick. He knew his subject matter a lot more than some people give him credit for. He was a good politician. He understood his riding just outside of St. John’s,” Peckford said.
“A lot of people really loved the man.”
In 2004, Hickey started the Newfoundland and Labrador First Party and attempted a political comeback, but lost in 2006.
Hickey’s cremation has taken place. Visitation will take place at Caul’s Funeral Home on LeMarchant Road in St. John’s on Jan. 7, with funeral services taking place at St. Francis of Assisi Church in Outer Cove on Jan. 8.
