James R. Dize Sr.

James Rodney Dize Sr., 79, of Westminster, died Monday, May 28, 2012, at home.

Born Dec. 10, 1932, in Rumbley, Somerset County, he was the son of the late Clifford Collins and Catherine Emily Dize. He was the former husband of the Rev. Ellin Mae Dize, of Reisterstown.

Born of waterman heritage, he attended a one-room school house, sometimes riding the school bus through water at high tide. He came to Baltimore after his father settled there, leaving behind a crab and oyster business. He took over his ill father's real estate business while holding down a full time printing job. He built the business along with his late brother, Stewart M. Dize. He obtained a position at Anchor Motor Freight, retiring as secretary treasurer of Teamster's Local 557.

He was a member of the Free State Region, Vintage Chevrolet Club of America Inc., and of St. James United Methodist Church in West Friendship.

Surviving, in addition to his former wife, are children Julia Glendenning, of Westminster, and James Rodney Dize Jr., of Eldersburg; grandchildren Gavin and Marell Glendenning, and Alexander and Clair Dize; companion of 12 years Elizabeth Rhodes, of Westminster; a sister, Viola Mister, of Princess Anne; and half brother, William Hill, of Princess Anne.

The family will receive friends from 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday, and from 10 a.m. until the time of service, 11 a.m. Friday at Eckhardt Funeral Chapel, 11605 Reisterstown Road, Owings Mills, with the Rev. Timothy Feaser officiating. Interment will be in Meadowridge Memorial Park in Elkridge.

Online condolences may be offered at www.eckhardtfuneralchapel.com.

Sign this guest book online at www.carrollcountytimes.com.