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Margery L. Dickinson (nee Hurst) died peacefully in her home on September 15, while looking out at the river view that she enjoyed so much. She was 75.
Margery was born to George and Alice Hurst in Great Falls, Montana, in 1938, the second-eldest of four daughters. At age 7, her family moved to Richland. The following Sunday, they went to their first service at Central United Protestant church. Margery attended Central Church for the rest of her life (except when she was away from Richland), and sang in the choir for 39 years.
It was at Central where Margery met Dean Dickinson, her future husband. But before they got together, Margery moved to Seattle. She worked as a secretary and then earned a degree in occupational therapy from the University of Washington. She also found time to get her pilot's license, and to take up folk dancing and target shooting.
Ten years after they first met, Margery and Dean re-connected. They married in 1972, and Margery moved back to Richland. Six years later, they had a son, Evan.
In 1979, Margery joined the League of Women Voters. Her interest in public policy grew, and she returned to the University of Washington, receiving a master's in public administration in 1988. Margery hoped to get a job changing how health care is delivered. Although that did not work out, Margery firmly believed that "when God closes a door, he opens a window." She soon found other uses for her new degree.
In 1993, Margery ran for Richland City Council, promising to reign in give-aways to developers and better environmental stewardship. She received 40% of the vote. After retirement, Margery found her largest passion in life and her calling from God, advocating for prisoners. She started out helping inmates with their legal needs, and with abuses they faced from guards. This led her to work towards structural reforms: improving current practices in prisons while encouraging alternatives to incarceration. And she did all of this while lovingly caring for Dean, who faced a prolonged illness.
Margery is survived by her son, Evan Dickinson, and two of her sisters, Mary Palmquist and Susan Hurst. Dean passed away two years ago. Her eldest sister, Leslie, passed in 1991.
A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 5, at Central Church in Richland. Donations in Margery's name can be made to the Southern Poverty Law Center.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Evan, it was a pleasure to meet both Margery and you last fall. Your Mom seemed a lively and interested person. Surely she'll be missed. Bless her.
David Dickinson
October 4, 2013
Evan, your mother helped my son with his struggles as he serves time in prison. Because of Margery, Rob has become a better man and gave him hope and faith, which I am so grateful. So sorry for your and our loss.
Donna Morris
October 1, 2013
As a close friend of one of the prisoners that Margery advocated for and cared for over a period of many years, I can confidently say that she was an unbelievable human being. Margery was a bright shining light in a place of unbelievable darkness. A true servant who cared for the least, the last, and the lost. May the Lord blanket you with Love and Grace in these times.
Tim Schluter
September 30, 2013
Evan, My sincere condolences on the loss of your mother. We enjoyed getting to meet her and you both last November.
Nancy Dickinson
September 30, 2013
You were a glowing light to many...God bless
Jodi Luskin
September 29, 2013
Rest in peace "Hootie"....you will be greatly missed! Sure hope your riding that trike around up There! :) Love You! Scott and Jodi *Hugs*
Jodi Luskin
September 29, 2013
Dear Susan,
I am so sorry for your loss. I did not know your sister, but for you and your family my thoughts and prayers go out. I am so sorry.
Love, Jo Marie Ford
Jo Marie Ford
September 27, 2013
Margery was one of the most interesting and cheerful people to talk to. She was funny and quirky in the very best sense of the word - a unique person. Such stories she and Dean could tell over dinner! We were neighbors and our sons were good friends in high school and my heart goes out to Evan.
Vicki Glasford
September 26, 2013
Evan, So sorry to hear about your mom. Sounds like she went peacefully, that's a blessing. I will miss running into her around town. Her cheerful attitude and commitment to community were inspirational.
Ginger Wireman
September 25, 2013
She is like a second mother to me. I love her very much. I will miss her!
Ms. Sarah Babcock
September 25, 2013
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