Ruby Lee Bates Dickerson

DICKERSON, Ruby Bates, 81, passed away peacefully on August 10, 2016, at her home surrounded by family, friends and her kitties. She was predeceased by her father, Frank B. Bates; her mother, Ruby Durrette Bates; her husband of 60 years, Ronald B. Dickerson; and her friend, Betty Ann Edwards of Mechanicsville, Va. She is survived by her daughter, Tamera; Roy, Michael; and her lifelong best friend, Rose Lee Maphis of Nashville, Tenn. She graduated from Varina High School in 1953 and went on to attend Mary Washington College. She played in the Varina High School Band for five years and one year at Mary Washington. She was a lifelong member of Calvary United Methodist Church and sang in the choir for 13 years. Ruby was very active with her crafts, gardening and animals until experiencing a stroke four years ago, which put her in a wheelchair and required in-home nursing help. The family would like to take this opportunity to thank Tisha Green and “A Hopeful Home,” for all the care and love they showed to Ruby. The caregivers they supplied for the past two and a half years were the most caring, loving, and compassionate people you would ever meet. There are no words to express our gratitude for all you did. A graveside service will be held at Washington Memorial Park on Tuesday, August 16, 2016, at 11 a.m. Due to the heat, please dress comfortably. Online condolences may be conveyed to the family at www.nelsencares.com.