Sara Marie Dickens

Sara Marie Dickens of Milford, MI passed away on December 29th, 2023 at the age of 68.
Sara grew up in Lathrup Village, MI with her parents, Walter and Betty Baughman, sister Doris, and brothers Bill and Dave. From the young age of 5, Sara enjoyed spending time on her parent's boat, traveling to places such as Metropolitan Beach, Boblo Island, and The Old Club on Harsens Island. She had fond memories of spending time with family and friends on the boat along with making lifelong friends in her neighborhood.
Sara received her associate degree from Northwood University in 1975 in Fashion Merchandising. She worked as an assistant manager at Winkelmans until marrying her late husband, Hugh Lyon, in 1980. At this point, she moved to Canada, settling in Fergus, Ontario. Sara opened her heart to her step-children, Sandy, Bob, and Kathy Lyon and had her own daughter with Hugh, Ashley Lyon, on 4/26/84. After 3 years living in Fergus, Sara and Hugh moved to Sarasota, FL for one year and finally settled in Livonia, MI.
Sara loved being a mother and wife and dedicated much of her time to volunteering in the classroom, having family time, and starting her own businesses. Around 1992, her late husband was diagnosed with melanoma. She was a compassionate caregiver to Hugh, who passed away in December of 1994. During his illness, Sara dedicated herself and family to enjoying life, going on multiple family trips, encouraging laughter, and having a positive outlook on life.
In January of 1996, Sara went on her first date with her soon-to-be husband, Darel Dickens. This relationship opened Sara up to experiencing love again. In February of 1997, Sara and Darel were married and a new chapter of her life began. This chapter included learning how to enjoy life again through love, travel, art, meditation, and Buddhism. Eventually, Sara and Darel put down roots in Milford, MI where they obtained their dream home, and Sara pursued her passion for art by opening Tula's gift shop. They made lasting friendships in the Milford community.
Sara was an artist, entrepreneur, business owner, and volunteer. Sara had a heart that could love fiercely and unconditionally. She brought this love into her roles as wife, mother, stepmother, grandmother, sibling, sister in law, aunt, daughter, cousin and friend. She loved traveling, going out to eat, fashion, art, and spending time with loved ones, including her animals. She will be dearly missed and will leave a large hole in the hearts of her family and friends. Her family is consoled by the knowledge that she is no longer suffering and is at peace.
Sara is survived by her husband, Darel; daughter, Ashley (Josh); stepchildren Sandy, Bob (Lynn), and Kathy; step-grandchildren, Aurore and Leiney; her siblings, Bill (Gail), Dave (Barbara), and Doris (John); and multiple nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Walter and Betty; first husband, Hugh; and great nephew, Anthony.
An intimate burial will take place on January 2nd, 2023 with immediate family.
Celebration of life ceremony is to be determined at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, please make charitable donations to the ALS Association or ALS of Michigan.