Willis Dickerson's Obituary
Willis Carrol Dickerson, 92, of Unionville, Missouri, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on May 23, 1933, on a farm in Putnam County, Missouri, to Orval and Genevieve (Tucker) Dickerson, and lived a life full of love, laughter, music, and service.
He graduated from Unionville High School in 1950 and married the love of his life, Neola Faye (Sheely) Dickerson, on July 17, 1953. Shortly after, Willis was inducted into the United States Army in September 1953. He and Faye spent two years away from home before returning to Putnam County, where they purchased a farm southwest of Lemons and began building a life rooted in family and community. Together, they raised four children—Steve, Brent, Tim, and Gena—on the family farm, instilling in them the values of hard work, integrity, and love for the land.
Willis was a true entrepreneur. Alongside his cousin, Melvin Dickerson, he co-founded several businesses in Centerville, Iowa, including a slot car racetrack with Saturday night races and later, Dick’s Music Store on the town square. In 1974, the two also co-founded the Rathbun Country Music Theatre near Rathbun Lake in southern Iowa. Willis later took full ownership and, with Faye by his side, operated the beloved music show for over 40 years. Willis served as the emcee and guitarist, while Faye managed the box office and snack bar—a true team effort that brought joy to countless visitors.
Known for his ornery spirit and the gleam in his eye, Willis had a way of bringing joy and laughter wherever he went. He loved telling jokes and had a playful nature that often led to lighthearted pranks. His laughter was infectious, and his presence lit up every room he entered. He had a knack for do-it-yourself projects and could fix just about anything—whether it was around the house, on the farm, or under the hood of a car.
Willis was a devoted member of the United Methodist Church in Unionville, where he served on the board of trustees and played a key role in rebuilding the sanctuary in 1993.
He is survived by his son, Brent Dickerson and wife Kelly of Centralia, MO; his daughter, Gena Fitzgerald and husband Barry of Liberty, MO; and his daughter-in-law, Kay Dickerson of Lucerne, MO. He is also lovingly remembered by six grandchildren: Angie (John) Sidden, Josh (Melody) Dickerson, Levi and Logan Dickerson, Mikayla and Madisyn Fitzgerald; and five great-grandchildren: Mitchell and Carter Sidden, and Adeline, Gretchen, and Charley Dickerson.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Faye; two sons, Steven Sheely Dickerson and Timothy John Dickerson; his parents; and his brother, Maurice Dickerson.
Willis’s legacy is one of love, humor, music, craftsmanship, and unwavering dedication to family and community. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to Karen Ruscito for her compassionate and devoted care of Willis in his home over the past four years. Her kindness, presence, and unwavering support brought comfort and dignity to Willis and peace to those who loved him.
Funeral services for Willis Dickerson will be held at Thomas Funeral Home in Unionville at 2:00 pm on Monday, November 10, 2025. Visitation will be 1 hour prior to service from 1:00 – 2:00 pm.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations made be made to The Unionville Methodist Church or Unionville Cemetery and entrusted to Thomas Funeral Home, 709 S. 27th St., Unionville, MO 63565.
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