Ardyce Ann Dickey

Ardyce Ann Dickey of Cozad passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 21, 2024 at Meadowlark Pointe at the age of 84. Ardyce was born on January 28, 1940 in Cozad, Nebraska, to Herman and Martha (Holbein) Hansen. A proud graduate of Cozad High School, Ardyce furthered her education by attending Nebraska Wesleyan and Kearney State College. Ardyce devoted over 35 years of her life to shaping young minds as a second-grade teacher at Central Elementary. Her dedication and passion for teaching left a lasting impact on the many students she had the pleasure of guiding.

Ardyce married Gene Dickey on May 30, 1971, at her parent’s home in Cozad. Family was at the heart of Ardyce's life. She made Sunday dinners, birthday and anniversary celebrations, and holidays especially memorable for her loved ones. The greatest joys in her life were her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who brought immense happiness to her days.

Throughout her life, she remained active in her community, particularly at the Cozad United Methodist Church, where she served in various ways. Ardyce enjoyed working at the Cozad Methodist Thrift Shop, played in the bell choir, sang in the church choir, and loved working with Kids of the Kingdom.

In her personal life, Ardyce found joy in her hobbies. She had a deep love for flowers, particularly snapdragons, and spent many hours tending to her beautiful flower beds and pots. Her favorite color, yellow, was often reflected in the clothes she wore and the flowers she grew, brightening the lives of those fortunate enough to know her. Ardyce also loved supporting her local teams, enjoying sports at Cozad High School, as well as cheering passionately for Nebraska football and volleyball. Additionally, Ardyce enjoyed playing bridge with her friends, cherishing the moments spent in their delightful company.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her sister Martha Rae Wright. Ardyce is lovingly survived by her husband Gene of Cozad; daughter Stacy (Chris) Cole of Hastings, MN; grandchildren, Matt Mroczek (fiancé Bri McNelly) and Brooke Hernday and Mackenzie Cole; great grandchildren, Swaisen Mroczek, Alayna and Collin Hernday; and many other extended family and friends.

Memorials are suggested to the family for later designation. Cremation was chosen with a private family memorial service. Those wishing to sign the memorial book may do so on Wednesday, September 25, 2024 from 1 to 7 p.m. at Berryman Funeral Home.