Charlie Francis "Dickie" Dickinson Jr.

Charlie "Dickie" Francis Dickinson, Jr., a cherished husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away on February 26, 2025, at Lower Cape Fear LifeCare Hospice Services of Wilmington, at the age of 79. Born on December 24, 1945, in New Bern, NC, Charlie lived a life filled with love, laughter, and service.
Charlie graduated from New Bern High School as Senior Class President before pursuing higher education at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration. In 1969, Charlie married the love of his life, Sandy, embarking on a journey of partnership that spanned more than five decades. Together, they built a loving family.
A proud Army Veteran, Charlie was drafted in December 1970. He served his country honorably, receiving the National Defense Service Medal and several marksman awards.
Charlie's business career began at Cone Mills from 1969-1970, and returning after military service from 1972-1984. He was with Springs Industries from 1984-1992. Charlie served as Vice President of Sales/Marketing at Parkdale Mills in Gastonia, NC from 1992 until his retirement in 2006. Charlie held several textile industry leadership positions including Southwestern Apparel & Textile Manufacturers Association (SWAT'M) and Southeastern Apparel & Textile Manufacturers Association (SEAT'M).
His professional achievements were matched by his vibrant personal interests. Charlie was an avid golfer, enthusiastic fisherman, passionate boater, and lover of beach music. Known as the best storyteller, he shared countless tales with those close to him. Above all, Charlie remained a die-hard Carolina Tarheels fan, a testament to his enduring spirit and loyalty.
A man of many memberships, Charlie was a Mason and an Eagle Scout, reflecting his commitment to community and camaraderie. He leaves behind a legacy of service, dedication, and unwavering kindness.
Preceded in death by his parents, Charles Francis Dickinson, Sr. and Dorothy (Dell Goulding) Dickinson. Charlie is survived by his beloved wife Sandy Witt Dickinson, daughter Stacie Dickinson (Simmons) and her children Mason and Peyton, son Carter Dickinson (Sallie) and their children Isaac and Sadie, sister Regina Dickinson Crawford (Ed), along with many extended family members and friends who loved and will miss him dearly.
A Memorial Service to honor Charlie's remarkable life will be held on Saturday, March 8, 2025, at 2:00 PM at the Wilmington Funeral & Cremation Chapel, located at 1535 S. 41st Street, Wilmington, NC 28403. The United States Army Funeral Honors Team will render military honors at the conclusion of services in remembrance of Charlie's dedicated service to our country.
In lieu of flowers, Charlie's family kindly asks that you consider a memorial contribution to Lower Cape Fear LifeCare Hospice, an organization that provides compassionate palliative and end-of-life care to those in need. They offer comfort and dignity during life's most challenging moments, much as they did for Charlie and his family. Memorial contributions may be made here:
Charlie's legacy will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Care entrusted to Tranquility Cremation by Aquamation - 2209 Delaney Avenue Wilmington, NC 28403 910.769.1615
Past Services
Memorial Service
Saturday, March 8, 2025
Starts at 2:00 pm (Eastern time)
Wilmington Funeral & Cremation