Obituary
Guest Book
HENDERSON- Joyce Roberson Dickerson of Henderson, was born on March 10, 1943, to the late Jesse Raymond Roberson and Mildred Pegram Roberson. She was the beloved wife of the late William Rives Dickerson, Sr., of Oxford.
From a young age, Joyce had a lifelong love of reading and learning. As a child, while her siblings played outside, she could often be found immersed in a book, with a special fascination for the encyclopedia—a collection she read cover to cover. A strong student throughout her school years, Joyce often earned all A’s in her classes, reflecting her curiosity and intelligence. Her intellect and love of learning stayed with her throughout her life.
Professionally, she built a career in bookkeeping, serving several businesses and retiring from Vance County Planning and Development.
Joyce was a member of North Henderson Baptist Church for over 60 years, where her faith was a central part of her life. She was also a proud member of the Edith South Sunday School Class, cherishing the friendships, fellowship, and the continued spiritual growth she experienced there.
Joyce is survived by her son, William (Billy) Dickerson Jr., and his wife Jorie of Apex; granddaughters Avery Leigh and Reese Olivia Dickerson, currently attending the University of North Carolina at Wilmington; and her sister Elaine Brame and husband Larry of Henderson; niece Darlene Best of Roanoke Rapids and her nephew Hartwell Wayne Pruitt of Henderson. She also leaves cherished friends Joan Rogers, Peggy Evans, and Marion Sharp Johnson. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, sister Birdie Travis, and great-nephew JC Pruitt.
Joyce treasured the special relationships she formed, particularly with Dr. Singh and Margaret at Henderson Pulmonary, whom she affectionately called her angels. The family also extends gratitude to the warm staff at Whitmore Retirement Home for their compassionate care.
Joyce will be remembered for her quiet strength, her unwavering faith, her love of learning, and the warmth and devotion of her family.
A funeral service will be held at JM White Funeral Home Chapel on Saturday, January 3, 2026 at 2:00 P.M. officiated by Rev. Eddie Nutt and Rev. Jake Roberson. Burial will follow at Elmwood Cemetery in Henderson. The family will receive friends prior to the service on Saturday at J.M. White Funeral Home beginning at 1:00 P.M.
Serving as pallbearers will be Scott Greenway, Chris Dickerson, Kevin Dickerson, Donnie Jackson, and Ryan Phelps.
Memorial contributions may be made to North Henderson Baptist Church, 1211 N. Garnett St., Henderson NC, 27536 or Rebuilding Hope, 414 Raleigh Road, Henderson, NC 27536 or at Rebuilding Hope Online.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
60 Zeb Robinson Road, Henderson, NC 27536

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