James R. Hickey, 73, of Ashland passed away unexpectedly Monday Feb. 17th at his home. Born in Boston, he was the son of the late Joseph and Alice (White) Hickey and husband of Lorraine (Stigas) Hickey. They were married 46 years. Jim was a graduate of Wentworth Institute and went on to found Richmond Development Corporation responsible for many homes in the Ashland and Metrowest area. He was active in his community and was a member of St. Cecilia's Parish and was instrumental in the organization of the Ashland Emergency Fund. In addition to his wife; he is survived by one son; Steven Hickey and his wife Corinne of Ashland; three grandchildren, Matthew, Allison, and Erin; two sisters; Ann Hickey and Kathleen Cronin, both of Ashland; two brothers; Joseph Hickey of Easthampton, CT; and William Hickey of West Palm Beach, FL; and was the brother of the late Robert Hickey. A funeral Mass will be celebrated Friday, Feb. 21st at 9:00am in St. Cecilia's Church, 54 Esty St. in Ashland with burial to follow in St. Joseph's Cemetery West Roxbury. Calling hours will be held Thursday from 4:00-7:00 PM in the Matarese Funeral Home, 325 Main St. in Ashland. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Ashland Emergency Fund, PO Box 112, Ashland, MA 01721