Former TSU sprinter and Olympian Iris LaVerne Davis-Hicks passed away on September 19 at the age of 71.  "TSU Athletics expresses its' deepest condolences to the family of Mrs. Iris Davis-Hicks," said Dr. Mikki Allen, Director of Athletics. "She left an indelible mark on the sport of track and field, and we will continue to honor her legacy as one of our greats."
 
A decorated athlete who dazzled in the 100-meter dash, she won a gold medal at the 1971 Pan-American Games and competed in the 1972 Summer Olympics, placing top three in the races. Professionally, Davis-Hicks won four US Championships: 100-meter in 1971 and 1973 as well as the 60-meter dash in 1972 and 1973. 
 
"She was a good friend and was well-respected in the Nashville area," said Chandra Cheeseborough-Guice, Head Coach for Men's and Women's Track and Field. "She will be missed."
 
A native of Pompano Beach, Fla., Davis-Hicks put down roots in Nashville following her track and field career and was a local resident for over two decades. She returned to her hometown in 2021. She is survived by her son.
 
A graveside service will be held at the Fairway Memorial Gardens in Deerfield Beach, Fla. on Saturday, October 2, 2021 at 11:30 a.m.
 
Arrangements may be sent to:
 
Fuller Brothers Funeral Home
3125 W Atlantic Blvd
Pompano Beach, FL 33069