Obituary of Marilyn E. Dickerson

The Life Story Marilyn Elizabeth Barnes Dickerson was born on December 6, 1954. She was the fifth child of Isaac and Constance (Fitzgerald) Barnes. From an early age, Marilyn dedicated her life to Christ and became a devoted member of the First Baptist Church of Crestmont. She brought joy to all who knew her, always sharing her beautiful smile and warm, loving spirit. Marilyn graduated from Abington Senior High School in 1972. Inspired by her love of working with children, she went on to earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from Beaver College in Glenside, Pennsylvania, fulfilling her dream of becoming a teacher. This marked the beginning of a lifelong journey spent guiding and nurturing young learners. In 1978, Marilyn married the love of her life, John A. Dickerson, Jr. Together, they shared 47 wonderful years of marriage and were blessed with two daughters, Rachel and Sarah. After settling in New Jersey, Marilyn became an active member of Union Baptist Temple Church in Bridgeton under the leadership of Reverend Dr. Albert Morgan, Emeritus. She poured her love and faith into serving as a Deaconess and singing in the choir. Throughout her teaching career, Marilyn touched the lives of many students. She held them to high expectations, made lessons interactive and engaging, and inspired each to become their very best. After 36 years of dedicated service, Mrs. Dickerson retired with distinction. Over the years, she received several honors, including Educator of the Year from the New Jersey Lutheran Church in 1994, The Daily Journal Reader’s Choice “Best of the Best Teacher” award in 1995, and Teacher of the Year in 2018 from the Commercial Township School District in Port Norris, New Jersey. She earned the respect of colleagues and parents alike through her tireless work ethic and creativity. Parents often remarked that the difference between ordinary and extraordinary was the “little extra” Mrs. Dickerson always put in to help her students succeed. Marilyn was deeply treasured by her family and friends. She had beautiful penmanship and loved using calligraphy to write letters and Christmas cards to those she cared for. She also enjoyed decorating her home, making crafts, and tending to her garden—a pastime she shared with her mother and passed down to her daughters. To Marilyn, caring for the soil was an expression of her love and respect for God’s creation. She cherished the beauty and harmony of nature and found joy in watching the bees pollinate her flowers, helping the earth to grow. Her greatest joy was creating a tapestry of memories with her grandchildren, Christian and Aubrey, and their family pet, Rusty. Known affectionately as “Mom Mom,” she was their biggest cheerleader. She made it a point to be present at birthdays, orchestra concerts, dance recitals, volleyball games, and every special celebration. She also enjoyed taking Rusty on daily walks, where he eagerly explored every sound and smell. Marilyn departed this life on June 25, 2025, and will be deeply missed by all who loved her. She leaves to cherish her memory: her beloved husband, John Dickerson; daughters, Rachel and Sarah; grandchildren, Christian and Aubrey; brothers, Isaac Jr., William, and Chewzi (Ming); sisters-in-law, Carmen Amos (Kent) and Lisa Dickerson; brother-in-law, Michael; goddaughters, Regina Johnson and Serena Bailey; as well as nieces, nephews, extended family, and her lifelong friend, Ariel Bosseau. Marilyn was predeceased by her dear mother and father; grandparents; brother, Leonard; and sister, Margaret. Lovingly Submitted, The Family