Shirley Ann Dickson

Shirley Ann (Noles) Dickson transitioned to her heavenly home on October 20, 2025. Born on February 12, 1936, in Tonkawa, Oklahoma, she was the cherished daughter of Thomas William (T.W.) and Ollie Mae (Gravel) Noles. Shirley, along with her younger brother Donnie Ray Noles, was raised in and around Tonkawa. She was preceded in death by her parents and her loving husband, Bill.

After graduating from Tonkawa High School in 1954, Shirley furthered her education by earning an Associate's Degree from Northern Oklahoma College. Shortly after completing her studies, she moved to Tulsa with her close friend, Elva Ann, and began work in banking.

During the summer of 1958, Shirley met the love of her life, Bill, at a community dance. They married in December 1958 and celebrated 55 years together before Bill's passing in 2014. The couple's journey together was marked by love, resilience, and partnership. Shirley was a loyal and faithful wife and mother, supporting Bill through his recovery with Alcoholics Anonymous and actively participating in both local and regional AA events. Following Bill's diagnosis with Alzheimer's Disease, Shirley dedicated herself to caring for him until his passing. In the years after Bill's death, Shirley herself faced the challenges of dementia and spent her last five years in memory care.

Shirley worked at the Oral Roberts Evangelistic Association for 22 years, beginning as a mail reader in the correspondence department and advancing to the position of Executive Administrative Assistant.

Shirley loved singing in the choir at both Boston Avenue Methodist and First Methodist Church in Tulsa, participating for many years. She and Bill were also active with the Builder's Class at First Methodist Church. Shirley's greatest pleasure came from spending time with her family, especially her three grandchildren, whom she loved babysitting and taking on trips.

Above all, Shirley will be remembered for her strong faith and kind and generous spirit. She found happiness in helping others and cherished gatherings with friends and family, particularly the Noles's Thanksgiving Family Reunions.

Shirley is survived by her children: Melinda Humphrey and husband Joe of Skiatook; Colonel William Joseph Dickson D.D.S. and wife, Colonel Peggy Dickson, D.D.S. of Washington, D.C.; her grandchildren: Heather Duncan and husband Denver of Washington, D.C., Seth Dickson and wife, Sherelle of Washington, D.C., and Mia Dickson of Stillwater; her great-grandchildren: Daxx, Zadie, and Dutch Duncan; and her brother Donnie Ray Noles and wife Saundra of Bixby. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family members.

The family expresses their gratitude to the caregivers and workers at Homestead Memory Care in Owasso and Luminos Hospice for the compassionate care they provided to Shirley.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Shirley's name to the Alzheimer's Association or First Methodist Church in Tulsa.