Visitation will be from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Monday, February 17, at the funeral home.
Paul was born on June 25, 1923 to Francis Marion and Emma Sarah (Mitchell) Dickerson in Waxahachie, Texas. He was a longtime resident of Waco. He attended Bosque and Waco public schools. Paul married the love of his life, Lissie Grace Reed in July 21, 1942 in Lorena, Texas.
He served in the United States Army Air Force during World War II. He flew thirty Combat Missions as Gunner on B-24 Lead Crew and was involved in following battles, Normandy, Northern France, and Air Offensive Europe. He was a Staff Sergeant Mighty Eight Air Force. He received Distinguished Flying Cross, Air Medal with Five Clusters, Combat Medal with six Battle Stars, French Croix De Guerre, European Theatre Victory Medal, Good Conduct Medal and Commemorative Medals from Belgium and France.
Paul worked for General Tire And Rubber Company for 36 years as General Foreman. Paul also served as Associate Pastor of Trinity Church and Church on the Rock in Bellmead. He was also active member of many military groups: Life Member, Commander and Chaplain, Veterans of Foreign, Life Member Eighth Air Force Historical Society, Chaplain Kassel Mission Memorial Association, American Legion, Second Air Division Association.
He was preceded in death by his parents, wives, Lissie Grace (Reed) Dickerson, Bonnie (Hightower) Dickerson; step-mother, Beatrice Dickerson; sisters, Mary Louise Dickerson, Helen Gibson; brother, Tillman Dickerson.
Survivors include his daughters, Patricia VanDeventer and husband, Tony, Linda Rarick and husband, Jim, Frances Mackey and husband, Phillip; 31 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, 7 great-great grandchildren and one on the way; a host of nieces, nephews and step-children.
The family would like to thank Ridgecrest Retirement and Healthcare for the loving care given to their father.
In lieu of flowers, memorials can be given to your favorite charity.
