

John grew up in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where his love of learning took firm root. He graduated from the University of Pittsburgh, earning both his DDS and a master's degree in public health, an achievement that reflected a steady devotion to knowledge and to the well-being of others.
He served his country in the United States Army in the EOD unit, carrying that same sense of duty into a life of caring for people as a dentist. In every season, John’s generosity showed itself in the quiet ways he gave of his time, his attention, and his skill.
In 1960, John married Rebecca Susan Rawlings, and together they shared 66 happy years of marriage. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, and he was deeply beloved by those who knew him best. John is survived by his wife, Rebecca Susan Rawlings Dickinson; their three children, Susan Lindner, Mark Dickinson, and Robert Dickinson (Jennifer); three grandchildren, David Lindner, Eric Lindner, and Melissa Lynn; and one great-granddaughter, Mahala Lynn.
A man of faithful presence, John was a member of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus. He also found everyday joy in being an avid reader, in his love of animals, and in cheering on his hometown teams as a devoted Pittsburgh Steelers and Pittsburgh Pirates fan.
A Funeral Mass will be held at Our Lady of Perpetual Help, 501 S Moore Rd, Chattanooga, TN 37412, on July 30, 2026, at11:00, A Committal Service will follow at Chattanooga National Cemetery, 1200 Bailey Ave, Chattanooga, TN 37404, on July 30, 2026, at 12:30 pm with military honors rendered by the United States Army Honor Guard.
The family would like to thank the staff and the residents of the Bridge Assisted Living Community and the staff of Hearth Hospice for the care that was given to John.
Please share your thoughts and memories of John with the family at www.chattanoogaeastchapel.com
Chattanooga Funeral Home East Chapel has been entrusted with his arrangements.
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