John Charles Dickey

Charles Dickey, 61, of Odessa was called from his home to the Lord Saturday, December 4, 2010. He was born December 10, 1948 in Abilene, TX. He graduated from Cooper High School in Abilene. He attended McMurray University in Abilene and Manhattan Conservatory of Music in New York City, with an emphasis on 20th Century Composition.

Charles returned to the Midwest and taught music at McMurray University and the University of Colorado.

Charles worked many years for Les White Music Company of Abilene. He was an authorized representative for Hammond Organ Company and Allen Organ Company. He was an accomplished pianist and accompanist and a member of numerous orchestras, jazz bands and ensembles. He was a mentor for many aspiring organ and piano students, and vocalists. He never stopped composing and arranging music, using the latest technology to bring his music into the digital age. He learned to use the computer to create a virtual orchestra to enhance his compositions. One of Charles’ hobbies led to the opening of Fantasy Glass, a stained glass studio. His other hobbies included carpentry, gardening, cooking and traveling.

He was choir director and organist in many Churches/Parishes including: Grace Lutheran – Abilene, St Paul Methodist – Abilene, Sacred Heart Catholic Church – Abilene, Westminster Presbyterian – Abilene, 1st Methodist Church – Anson, Saints Joachim & Ann Catholic Church – Clyde, and for the past 8 years, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church – Odessa, in addition to being Music Director for the Community Theatres in Abilene and Midland. His many talents and sharp wit will be missed by all who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Ruth Dickey, uncle V. L. Clark & aunt, Pauline Clark.

He is survived by his brother and sister-in-law, Gaylon & Phyllis Dickey of Moore, OK, nephew, Isaac Dickey of Moore, Oklahoma & long time friend Chris Schilling of Odessa.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, December 7, 2010 at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church with Father Mark Woodruff officiating. Interment will follow at the Gale Cemetery in Gale, TX.

May Charles rest in peace with God’s heavenly choir of Angels.

Services entrusted to Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home.