Gary Lee Dickerson went to be with his Heavenly Father on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at the age of 74. Born on November 17, 1951, in Seminole, Oklahoma, he was the son of Richard Dickerson and Harlene (Shirey) Dickerson. Gary grew up in the Seminole community, attending local schools and graduating from Varnum High School. Shortly after graduating, he was drafted and served in the Vietnam War and was later stationed in Germany. After his service, Gary continued his education and earned a degree in psychology from East Central State University.

Gary was blessed with his first son, Jimmy, from a previous marriage. Later, he married his loving wife, Janice, on July 4, 1978, and together they welcomed their son, Brandon. Gary and Janice shared more than 47 years of marriage.

In addition to being a loving husband, Gary was a devoted father who cherished the time spent throwing a baseball with his sons. He loved hunting, fishing, and spending time at the lake with his family. Gary worked at Tinker Air Force Base for more than 30 years as a sheet metal specialist before retiring to enjoy more time with the people he loved — riding motorcycles with Janice and hunting and fishing with his family and friends.

He was “Papa Gary” to his grandkids and great-grandkids, a name he wore with pride. He loved spending time with all the kids as often as he could. Some of his happiest moments were when the whole family gathered at the house, and he could cook for everyone — firing up the Green Egg or making a batch of his famous cinnamon rolls.

He will be dearly missed by his loving family: his wife, Janice; his sons, Jimmy (Marsha) and Brandon (Becky); his brother, Larry (Lynn); his grandchildren, Jewel, Hope (Caden), Shelby, and Brendan; and his great-grandchildren, Evan, Arzel, Nevah, and Daisy (expected in September). He is also survived by several nieces, nephews, cousins, a large extended family, and numerous friends.

His family will forever treasure his favorite reminder, spoken with love: “Remember, I love you.”