Dr. Jerry Leon Dickson, age 83, entered his heavenly home on January 23, 2023, at Circle of Life Hospice in Springdale, Arkansas.  He was born on May 20, 1939, in Arkansas City, Kansas to the late Lavern and Velma Dickson.  He is preceded in death by parents; a brother; a sister. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Karen Dickson; son, Matthew Dickson and wife Jennifer Dickson of Rogers; grandsons, Kaden, Seth, Landrey, and Corban Dickson.

Dr. Dickson received his bachelor's degree in 1960 and was awarded a doctorate in dentistry in 1964 from the University of Missouri at Kansas City.  He married the love of his life, Karen, in 1962 in Nevada, Missouri, and had one son, Matthew, in 1970.  For 20 years he practiced dentistry in the Federal Prison System with the United States Public Health Service in Texas, Pennsylvania, and Oklahoma before retiring with the rank of Commander in 1984.  During his time in Oklahoma, he and Karen owned and operated Hosanna Christian Bookstore.  An award-winning amateur photographer, he enjoyed taking trips and capturing the beauty of God's creation on film.  Dr. Dickson was a loving and dedicated husband and father, who always put the needs of his family above his own.  His love for his family was second only to his love for God.  He was very active in his church, serving many different roles, including singing in the choir, bus driver, Sunday School teacher, and deacon.  Dr. Dickson was often seen at church with a camera around his neck, taking pictures and making sure everyone was made to feel welcome.  He also had a heart for missions and serving others which resulted in his participation in several overseas mission trips where he was able to use his skill as a dentist to help meet physical needs while also sharing the gospel.  A friend best described him as "one of the nicest gentlemen I've ever known", which anyone who knew him will certainly attest.  His passing leaves a huge hole for all those who knew and loved him, but we rejoice in his homecoming and hold tight to the promise that we will see him again someday.

A memorial service for Jerry will be 1:30 P.M., Friday, January 27, 2023 at Colonial Baptist Church in Rogers, Arkansas.  Burial will follow at Benton County Memorial Park in Rogers, Arkansas under the direction of Memorial Funeral Home of Springdale.

Pallbearers serving will be Kaden Dickson, Seth Dickson, Brandon Johnson, Dave Varner, Mike Tubbs, Larry Ellsworth.  Honorary pallbearers will be Landrey Dickson and Corban Dickson.

The family is requesting that any memorial contributions be directed to the missions fund at Colonial Baptist Church, 1159 W Olive Street, Rogers, Arkansas 72756.