Dr. Calvin Dickinson

William Calvin Dickinson III died on August 30, 2021, at his home in Cookeville. He was born March 30, 1938, in Shreveport, LA, though grew up in Texas. He received his undergraduate degree with majors in history, religion, and philosophy and his master's degree in history from Baylor University and his Ph.D. in British History from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He taught at Chowan College in North Carolina for several years before moving to Cookeville to teach history at Tennessee Tech, receiving numerous awards for his teaching and research. Spending time on researching the books and articles brought much joy to him, as he did love history. The numerous books he wrote largely had to do with Tennessee. He enjoyed architecture and art and traveling to Europe with friends and family. He was a member of First United Methodist Church of Cookeville and sang in the choir for many years. Additionally, he was a dedicated member of the Rotary Club of Cookeville. He and his wife Charlene often had dinner parties for friends, with Charlene cooking up some tasty dishes day before in preparation. He is survived by his brother and wife, George E. and Phyllis O. Dickinson from Charleston, SC and their two children Cynthia S. Dickinson (William C. Garrison, husband) and daughters Lucy Marie and Rose Charlene Garrison from Pittsfield, MA and Daniel P. Dickinson (Roxane V. Pickens, wife) and sons Maxwell Calvin and Isaac George Dickinson from Coral Gable, FL. He was preceded in death by his wife Charlene White Dickinson, who died on May 1, 2021, and his parents William Calvin Dickinson and Evelyn Parker Dickinson. Calvin and Charlene would have been married 60 years on September 8. Given the COVID-19 resurgence, a graveside service will be held Saturday, September 4, at 3:00 p.m. at Crest Lawn Cemetery with Dr. Kevin Conrad officiating. A celebration of Dr. Dickinson's life will be held at a later date. Special appreciation to the many friends who brought him such joy in the final months of his life. Contributions in his honor may be made to the Cookeville History Museum, First United Methodist Church of Cookeville, Cookeville/Putnam County Animal Shelter, Sergeant York Patriotic Foundation and/or WCTE. Hooper Huddleston and Horner Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. (931)526-6111 Share memories and condolences at hhhfunerals.com.