James Henry Dickerson

James was born in Duquesne, Pennsylvania, as the second son of Carl and Oswanna Dickerson. He had three brothers that he loved and admired: Carl, Charles and Dennis. He was baptized as a child at Payne Chapel AME Church, where he developed a passion for faithful service that continued throughout his adult life. His last church home was St. Paul AME Church in Canton, Ohio, where he was an active member serving on many committees as well as a trustee.

James was a graduate of Duquesne High School. After high school, he attended Wilberforce University in Ohio, and Lincoln University in Pennsylvania. He proudly served his country in the US Navy, with the most time stationed in Japan. He was honorably discharged in 1967.

Following his military service, James began his business career as a retail store manager for the GC Murphy Company. In 2002, he retired as General Manager at an Ohio JCPenney store after nearly two decades of service. While living in Ohio, he remained an active member of Frontiers International, a men’s international service organization. In 2012, to enjoy a slower pace, James and his wife, Marva, moved to Columbia, MD, to be closer to their family.

James never met a stranger. Friendly and approachable, he would greet everyone with a smile and good conversation, whether in a grocery store checkout line or while eating in a restaurant. Friends and family alike could expect him to take a genuine interest in their lives and provide lively and engaging commentary. Plus, he always had a mint in his pocket to share.

Embodying an adventuring spirit, James traveled to Brazil after retirement with his brothers Carl and Dennis, enjoying a wonderful bonding experience with his brothers and a memorable cultural awakening. This proved to be a memorable break from his usual routine.

James enjoyed watching TV, especially mixed martial arts, boxing, and college and pro football games. He also loved watching classic war and western movies. His favorite show, Family Feud with host Steve Harvey, was a nightly event. He would shower and nap listening to gospel music and would play Gladys Knight and the Pips and other favorite groups when he could get his ‘Alexa’ to accommodate his commands. He enjoyed spending time with his family and his beloved dog, Charlie, who misses him dearly.

He was predeceased by his parents, Carl and Oswanna Dickerson, and his brother, Charles Dickerson.

James is survived by his devoted wife of 54 years, Marva Ruth Dickerson (nee Guilford); his son, James “Jay” (Courtney) Dickerson of Woodbridge, CT; daughters, Devin (Lisa) Dickerson of Columbia, MD; and Leia Dickerson of Hyattsville, MD; three grandchildren: Arden Dickerson, Ezra Dickerson, and Søren Dickerson; brothers, Carl (Jean) Dickerson of Pasadena, CA, and Dennis (Mary) Dickerson of Nashville, TN; as well as in-laws and a multitude of nieces and nephews.

A visitation for James will be held Friday, August 4, 2023 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Mt. Pisgah A.M.E Church, 5901 Cedar Fern Ct., Columbia, MD 21044, where the funeral service will begin at 11:00AM.

The family will have a private burial service at Garrison Forest Veterans Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests those who wish to express sympathy to consider making a donation to either Mount Pisgha AME Church or Lincoln University in Mr. Dickerson's name.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.witzkefuneralhomes.com for the Dickerson family.