Dominica Moscuzza Hicks

Dominica Moscuzza Hicks, 85, of Byron, Georgia, peacefully went to be with her Lord on May 28, 2026. A devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, Dominica lived a life full of love, laughter, faith, and family.

Born on August 4, 1940, in Brooklyn, New York, she was the daughter of the late Mr. Gasparino Moscuzza and Mrs. Concetta Galletta Moscuzza. From her New York roots to her cherished home in Georgia, Dominica carried a warm spirit that drew people close to her everywhere she went.

Dominica loved her family deeply and treasured every moment spent with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She especially adored children and found joy in making them smile. One of her favorite hobbies was collecting keychains, which she lovingly shared with the kids to play with, creating countless sweet memories that will forever be cherished.

She had a passion for reading, especially mystery novels, and could often be found with a good book nearby. Dominica also loved cooking and was especially famous for her homemade lasagna, a meal that brought family and friends together around the table time and time again.

Her faith was an important part of her life. She loved attending church and was a faithful member of Byron Baptist Church. Dominica was known for being firm when needed, but she was equally known for her humor, wit, and playful personality. She loved to joke and laugh, and one of her son Gus’s favorite daily traditions was receiving a morning phone call from his mother sharing a new joke to start the day. She never met a stranger and truly loved conversation and fellowship with others.

Among the many treasured family memories is the humorous story of Dominica accidentally leaving her grandson Michael at daycare, even with multiple reminder notes to herself. Though it became a family joke over the years, it perfectly reflected the lovable and human side of the woman everyone adored.

In addition to her parents, Dominica was preceded in death by her beloved son, Gus Rising; brother, Pat Moscuzza; and sisters, Marry Ann Valdez and Connie Concetta.

Left to cherish her memory are her son, Chuck Rising; sister, Lucy Denny; grandchildren, Michael (Aurora) Rising and Kira Rising; as well as eight great-grandchildren and many extended family members and friends who will forever hold her memory close to their hearts.

Though she will be deeply missed, her family finds comfort in knowing Dominica is now at peace in the presence of her Lord and reunited with loved ones gone before her.