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On January 4, 2026, the world lost a beautiful soul, Barbara Jean Dickerson, who passed away gently in her beloved hometown of Oxford, North Carolina. Born on December 28, 1953, Barbara lived a life that uniquely reflected her heart of gold, always extending compassion and kindness to those around her.
As a devoted homemaker and mother to many, Barbara's legacy is woven through the love she poured into her children and grandchildren. She cherished every moment spent with family, her laughter ringing through their lives like a cherished song. In her eyes sparkled profound wisdom, and her strength inspired all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Barbara’s passion for caring extended beyond her family; she had a soft spot for animals, enveloping her furry friends with just as much love as she did her human family. Tootoo, her beloved pet, stood as a testament to the nurturing nature she embodied, often being her faithful companion at her side.
She is remembered by her daughter, Tammy Evans (Clarence Wood), and her cherished grandson, Tommy Lee Williamson. Barbara was a proud matriarch, supporting her extended family and friends, including her beloved bonus children – Jeremy Bass, Sharon Smith, Andrew Wright, Jonathan Smith, Andrew Dickerson (Brenda Arrington), Brieanna Layne, Lisa Keeton, Bobby Oakley, Scotty Oakley and Mardi Bartow, a deep family friend and caregiver; and so many extended family and friends too numerous to name. whom she loved all deeply.
Barbara is survived by her siblings: John Wayne Dickerson, Robert Dickerson (Carolyn), Peter Dickerson, Mary D. Smith (Clifton), LeeAnn D. Fuller (Wesley), Brenda Dickerson, Polly Dickerson Daniel, and Judy Dickerson, all of whom carry forward her spirit. While she leaves behind an enormous family and countless friends who cherished her, her absence will be deeply felt—yet her memory will live on in the hearts of all who loved her.
She was predeceased by her parents, Junius Thomas Dickerson and Barbara Ellen Davis Dickerson, along with her brother, Tom Dickerson, and sister, Linda Dickerson. They welcomed her with open arms, gathering in a place where love and peace reign eternally.
In every encounter, Barbara was always there when you needed a helping hand or a listening ear. She had an unwavering ability to give you the shirt off her back, and her loving nature made an indelible mark on each life she touched. Though her physical presence is no longer with us, her spirit of love, compassion, and strength will continue to shine brightly through her family and friends.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Tungsten Baptist Church on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at 10:00 am officiated by Rev. Joe Don Cooper. The church address is 3944 Tungsten Mine Road, Bullock, NC 27507. Family and friends are invited to share in the special time to celebrate the beautiful life of Barbara.
As we gather to remember Barbara Jean Dickerson, let us celebrate not just the sorrow of her passing but the joy she brought to our lives. She was indeed a remarkable woman whose legacy will forever resonate through the generations that follow her.
Gentry-Newell & Vaughan Funeral Home is assisting the Dickerson family through this difficult time.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
503 College St., Oxford, NC 27565

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