Born on August 17, 1957, in Summit, to the late John J. and Mary “Irene” (nee. Reilly) Dickson, John was raised in North Arlington and moved to Sussex County in 1986 where he built a steady, meaningful life rooted in commitment to home and community.
John was a proud veteran who served in The United States Marine Corps from 1976 to 1980, a chapter of his life marked by duty and quiet strength. He later worked in sales with Prudential Insurance, bringing the same reliability and perseverance to his career that defined so much of who he was. Above all, John was a provider for his family, carrying that responsibility with constancy and care.
In his personal time, John found enjoyment in the simple, lasting pleasures that made life feel full: baseball, especially the Yankees along with hockey and the Rangers. He also loved crabbing, going down the shore, and walking the boardwalk, appreciating the calm and familiarity of those days.
The beloved husband to Deborah Dickson, John is also survived by his children, John Dickson, III, Paul T. Dickson and his wife, Dariela and James C. Dickson; his grandchildren, Ingrid, Irene and Paul, his siblings, Margaret Ratajezaki and her husband, Sam and Susan Protopapas and her husband, Nick and many nieces and nephews. Along with his parents, John was predeceased by his brother, Paul T. Dickson.
Visitation will be held at Grace Reformed Bible Church, 23 Thompson St, Newton, NJ on May 19, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am, followed by a Funeral Service at the same location at 11:00. Interment to follow at Newton Cemetery in Newton, NJ.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made out to Grace Reformed Bible Church, 23 Thompson St, Newton, NJ 07860. Condolences may be offered to the family below.
