Obituary
Guest Book
Barbara Rae Francisco Dickenson, a beloved mother and grandmother, passed away peacefully on July 15, 2025, at the age of 84. Born on November 3, 1940, in Halifax County, she touched many lives throughout her time with us.
Barbara, known for her feisty personality, dedicated her life to her family, friends, and her career as a store clerk. Her passions included crocheting, reading, cooking, and of course, her cherished pets, Wiley and Buddy. A devoted fan of the soap opera "General Hospital," Barbara often found delight in the stories it told and rarely missed an episode.
She is survived by her daughters, Christina Poteat of Blackstone, Robin Lloyd (Roger) of Chase City, and Amy Russell (Ross) of Saxe. Barbara's legacy continues through her four grandchildren: Cassy Tatum (Paul), Tyler Price, Jordan Hunt, and George Poteat II, as well as her great-grandchild, Isabelle Tatum. Her sister, Joyce Dunn of Boydton, along with her half-sister, Darla May of Yadkinville, NC, and half-brother, James Francisco of Pfafftown, NC, also survive her.
Barbara was predeceased by her parents, John Lewis Francisco and Mildred Claire Barbour Francisco Wilmouth, her husband, William Crispen Dickenson, Jr, and her brother William Charles “Butch” Francisco.
A funeral service will be held on Friday, July 18, 2025 at 2:00 P.M. at Powell Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Sean McGuire officiating. Burial to follow in Oak Level Presbyterian Church Cemetery.
The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at Powell Funeral Home.
For memorials, please consider SPCA Paws & Claws, P.O. Box 14, South Boston, VA 24592.
Online condolences may be directed to www.powellfuneralinc.com or by their Facebook page.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Powell Funeral Home, 1603 Wilborn Ave., South Boston, VA
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
1603 Wilborn Avenue, South Boston, VA 24592
Memories and condolences can be left on the obituary at the funeral home website.


What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more