Shirley Dickerson

Shirley Dickerson, 93, of Rochester, New York, died on January 22, 2021 after a long illness.

A devoted wife, mother and grandmother, she also worked as a legal secretary, a Ronald McDonald House volunteer and a caregiver to countless friends and family members. She survived multiple bouts with cancer and shrugged off a case of COVID-19 before honoring her oft-repeated vow to “wear out, not rust out.”

She was the beloved mother of Pamela Kasperkoski (William) of Pittsford, New York and Detroit Free Press Editorial Page Editor Brian Dickerson (Laura Berman) of Birmingham, Michigan. She is also survived by grandchildren Julia Hawley Reffner (Christopher), Andrew Hawley, Zachary Dickerson and Lina Berman, as well as four step-grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

Shirley was predeceased by her husband of 49 years, Donald T. Dickerson; and by her brother Ronald Wright. Due to the pandemic, a memorial service for family and friends will be scheduled later this year. Memorial contributions may be sent to Ronald McDonald House Charities of Rochester, New York, 333 Westmoreland Drive, Rochester, NY 14620.  Donate Online