Joanne Helen Dickinson's Obituary
Joanne Helen Dickinson, 86, of Frederick, Maryland, passed away on July 10, 2024 at Somerford House in Frederick, Maryland. She was the beloved wife of Robert N. (Bob) Dickinson, Sr. for 60 years.
Born on January 27, 1938 in Piedmont, West Virginia, she was the daughter of the late James J. McPartland and Helen (Stemp) McPartland.
Joanne grew up in Lonaconing, Maryland, and enjoyed a happy childhood where she developed her love of reading and photography. She excelled as a student at every level, and during her senior year of high school at Valley High her class was told they had to write an essay for a contest. Her essay on Benjamin Franklin was selected as the best in the school, then the county, and ultimately the best in the state. As the winner of the contest, she took the train to Baltimore where she was presented with her award by the Governor of Maryland on live television. She graduated from Valley High in 1956.
After high school Joanne attended Frostburg State University. She graduated with honors in 1960 with an education degree, specializing in mathematics.
She moved to Frederick, Maryland to begin her career as a math teacher. On June 23, 1962 Joanne married her long time boyfriend, Bob Dickinson. She taught elementary school for two years, but decided that wasn't for her, so she took a job with the local bank. With the birth of her first child, she left the bank and became a full-time stay at home mom.
When her children were old enough for school, she joined a morning bowling league at the old Village Lanes. She bowled in leagues for over 40 years with friends and her husband. She and Bob also enjoyed playing bridge, attending many tournaments. She was a member of St. Johns Catholic Church and joined the Catholic Daughters charitable organization. There she enjoyed the fundraisers and met many wonderful ladies that became friends for the rest of her life.
Joanne loved her annual trips to Ocean City, and to Florida, where she and Bob would attend Spring Training baseball games of the Baltimore Orioles. They would go on long walks on the beach, picking up shells and watching the crashing waves. She was also an avid fan of Maryland Terrapin basketball and men's & women's tennis.
She always looked forward to holidays and birthdays with her family. A tremendous baker, she would make the favorite cake of the guest of honor at every birthday. Singing and pictures were also a must. As was her nature, every picture she ever took had a date and description written on the back.
Soft spoken, upbeat and forever supportive of family and friends, she was a true delight to be around. Beautiful on the inside and out, she will be sorely missed but fondly remembered.
In addition to her husband, she is survived by her children Robert N. Dickinson, Jr. (and his wife, Jane) and Deanna Steinbrecher.
The family would like to thank the tremendous staff at Somerford House for the care they provided during her time there. She called the caregivers "my friends" and enjoyed the trips and many activities there.
The family will receive friends on Monday, July 15, 2024, from 4-6 pm at Resthaven Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens, 9501 Catoctin Mountain Highway, Frederick, Maryland 21701. A private burial will take place at a later date.
Memorial donations may be made for Alzheimer's research at donate.brightfocus.org.
Expressions of sympathy may be offered to the family at resthaven.us.
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