Shrewsbury – Audrey Livingston Hickey, of Shrewsbury, formerly of Walpole, died Thursday, May 24, 2012 in Beaumont of Northborough. She was 85.
She was born in Boston on October 27, 1926 a daughter of the late Arthur Hereward Livingston and Mabel (Bartle) Livingston. A graduate from Belmont High School and received her Bachelor of Science degree from Simmons College in Boston.
Her professional career began in the President's Office at Simmons College followed by an Administrative Assistant position to the Dean of Harvard Medical School. These positions exposed her to many professionals throughout the country. After a 3 year stay in Chicago she transitioned to her ultimate goal and dream to live in New York City. Her first position was as a grants manager for the City of New York. She then worked as an administrative manager for the biology department at New York University. Audrey loved New York and took advantage of all it has to offer: museums, theater, symphony and other cultural experiences. She also loved to travel with good friends.
She met and later married Lawrence C. Hickey, President of an export company. Together they lived in Tudor City in Manhattan, a neighborhood on the east side overlooking the United Nations. They also maintained a home in Hampton Bays, Long Island to escape the hectic hustle of city living.
After Larry's death on May 18, 1984, she remained in the city until retirement in 1994. She then moved to Walpole to reestablish her Massachusetts roots and friendships as well as being closer to her only sister, Dorothy. She renewed her involvement with Simmons College Alumnae and was elected Vise President of her class. A neighbor, a local artist, introduced her to water color painting where her inborn talent came to the fore. She joined several local art associations.
Her sister's move to Shrewsbury prompted Audrey to accompany and she purchased a home nearby in Shrewsbury.
In addition to her sister, Doris L. Doull of Shrewsbury, she leaves three nieces, Laura E. Taylor, Karen L. Quinlivan and her husband, John, and Susan E. Prior and her husband, Stephen, all of Shrewsbury; six grand nieces and grand nephews.
Family and friends will honor and remember Audrey's life by gathering at Heald & Chiampa Funeral Directors ~ The Sumner House, 5 Church Road, On the Common, Shrewsbury Center, on Saturday, June 2, 2012 where her Memorial Service will be celebrated at 1:00 p.m. The Rev. Betty Long, former Rector of Trinity Episcopal Church will officiate. Interment will be in Massachusetts National Cemetery, Bourne.
In lieu of flowers honor Audrey's memory with a contribution to Simmons College, class of “47, 300 The Fenway, Boston, 02215.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Heald & Chiampa Funeral Directors.
