From the 1880 census which is online at familysearch.org
This family is listed in Texas - with the last 3 children being born in Texas. Perhaps this will help in your tracking them.

Willis HICKS Self M Male W 45 MO Farmer MO MO
Elizabeth HICKS Wife M Female W 35 MO Keeping House TN TN
James M. HICKS Son Male W 14 MO At Home MO MO
Thomas HICKS Son S Male W 12 MO At Home MO MO
Telithe HICKS Dau S Female W 10 TX At Home MO MO
Joe HICKS Son S Male W 8 TX MO MO
Mary A. HICKS Dau S Female W 2 TX MO MO Precinct 4, Montague, Texas
Family History Library Film 1255320
NA Film Number T9-1320
Page Number 441C