Wilbur Leroy Dickson

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Wilbur Leroy Dickson, a man of boundless love, compassion and intelligence. A Clevelander all his life, Wilbur was born on February 26, 1933, and transitioned out of this life on April 6, 2026. He was the first of six children born to the late Wendell and Clara Belle (Johnson) Dickson. Through his journey of 93 years, he touched many lives with his generosity, wisdom, wry humor and an unwavering love of family and friends.

Driven by a quest for knowledge, Wilbur was a lifelong learner. He was a talented athlete and enjoyed racket sports, softball, bowling and fitness, playing cards with friends and family, traveling and working on cars. Wilbur was an avid reader, classical and jazz music enthusiast and had a passion for science and discovery. This spirit which characterized his life, always inspired those around him to achieve their goals and reach for the stars

Among the many milestones of his well-lived life, Wilbur met and later married the love of his life, Carol Marilyn (Smith) Dickson, after throwing jellybeans at her during high school summer school. They married in 1956, after Wilbur served a four-year tour of duty in the U.S. Air Force, stationed in Europe, during the Korean War. Together, they raised one child, Cheryl Lynne, born in 1957.

After a career working as a mechanic in automotive service stations, Wilbur was hired as a bus driver by the Cleveland Transit System (now RTA). In 1988, he retired from management, as a driver instructor. During retirement, in 1989, he and his best friend, the late Nolan Patterson, founded 'Two Sons 4 You', a home repair/construction business. Later, he became involved with daughter Cheryl's company, Media Magic/Cloverside Media, as well as the family's Cloverside Farm, in Ashtabula County - finally fulfilling the rural dreams of his late father, Wendell.

Wilbur's legacy of humor, devotion to family, and life-long learning will be carried forward by those who had the good fortune of knowing him. His remarkable life will forever be an inspiration, a testament to the power of faith, love and a spirit of hope, embused with curiosity, hard work, resilience and a big dose of humor.

He will be greatly missed and forever remembered.

He is survived by his loving daughter, Cheryl and her husband, David Walker, his dear sister and brother, Delores (Dickson) Davis and Eugene Dickson, dozens of beloved nieces, nephews and cousins, and his faithful tabby, Kitty Katty.

A memorial service celebrating Wilbur's exceptional life will be held at the end of May 2026. We invite all who knew and loved Wilbur to join us in honoring his memory. Check Cheryl's Facebook page for updates.

In lieu of flowers, we encourage you to honor Wilbur's legacy of learning by making a donation to your local PBS station - a fitting tribute to his extraordinary life.