Bernice Noble Dickey

Bernice Noble Dickey, after experiencing ninety-seven years of this earthly life, has released all ties and gone to be with the two most significant loves of her life, her husband Albert “Red” Dickey and precious daughter, Claire Dickey Bays. Red and Claire consumed every thought and moment of Bernice’s life until their early departure from this world.

“Proof of Angels among us” in the form of Roseanne Mitchell came to fill her losses and to help bolster the waning hope. Either at her side or very near, Roseanne was the constant caring and lovingly concerned friend and caretaker of Bernice.

Born October 24, 1909 in Houston to Frank and Ella Bender Noble, Bernice grew up in the historic Harrisburg area and never lost her love for it. Soon after graduation from Sam Houston High School, she began a glorious “for the young only” relationship with football hero Red Dickey of Sam Houston High and the Rice Owls. Their wonderful love continued in life and in memories.

They married and brought into this world their only child, Claire, to whom was given all they could give; and, then, wonderfully realized that Claire had learned to give to this world far more than she could ever receive. They fully supported Claire’s every endeavor and were by her side when she founded the Sterling Stars. Bernice attended every Stars’ performance carrying her repair kit in the event a Star’s costume needed mending or glove needed replacing.

After Red’s death, Bernice remained in her Houston home taking care of her neighbors, most younger than she, all stray animals, as well as her own pets. In 2000, when she could no longer daily climb the stairs, she moved into an apartment, designed and decorated by Claire, attached to Claire and Joe Bays’ home. Before Claire death in 2004, she settled her mother into Remington Place where Bernice remained until her death. The residents there enjoyed her smile, friendly waves and blown kisses. She always made sure no one was left out. She was a gracious Southern lady.

Bernice is survived by her son-in-law Joe Bays, who has been her confidant and protector in her last years; a host of relatives and friends, many who affectionately called her “Auntie Bern”; and her loving granddog, Peeny Weeny.

Loving thanks go to Roseanne Mitchell, Shirley Ulrich, Frankie Brewer, Vernice Rolle and Remington Park Staff and friends, and Dr. Chris Hayes.

Pallbearers will be Walter Beveridge, Russell Beveridge, Wayne Kellett, John Russell, Joe Carroll Ulrich, Bill Kurtz, and Jared Bays.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Claire Bays Shining Star Scholarship Fund at Crosby State Bank, 5700 Garth Road, Baytown, TX 77521.

Visitation will be Friday at Navarre Funeral Home from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. followed by the service at 11:00 a.m., officiated by Lou Harris. Burial will be at Houston’s Glenwood Cemetery where Bernice will lie beside Red and Claire.

Arrangements are under the direction of Navarre Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 2444 Rollingbrook Dr., Baytown, TX, 77521, 281-422-8111.