Marilyn Jean Dickinson

Marilyn Jean Dickinson, age 98, of Canton/Massillon, Ohio, passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 13, 2026.

Born June 9, 1928, in Youngstown, Ohio, Marilyn was the daughter of Rankin and Emma (Ryan) Pounders. She met her husband, Harold Merton (“Dick”) Dickinson, while working a summer season at the Chautauqua Institute in upstate NY, and they married in Youngstown in 1949. Marilyn affectionately became Dick’s “Dutch.” Together they traveled from Cincinnati, OH to Morgantown, WV to Ashtabula, OH, to Canton, OH and finally to Greenwood, SC in 1974. After Harold's passing in 2003, Marilyn made her final journey back to family in Canton, OH in 2009. They raised their four children along the way, and the family grew.

During her 35 years in Greenwood, Marilyn devoted herself wholeheartedly to serving others, including 18 years as Executive Director of the United Way of Greenwood County (South Carolina). Her generous spirit also shone through in her dedicated service to her church, community, and numerous volunteer organizations.

Above all, Marilyn treasured her family. She also had a deep appreciation for music, art, gardening, nature, and wildlife. She especially loved birds and the beach and found great joy in the beauty of the natural world.

Marilyn is survived by her four children, Debra Dickinson, Jeff Dickinson, Joanne (Dickinson) Marino, and Tracy Scott Dickinson; 10 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; as well as nieces, nephews, extended family members, and many dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband, Harold; and her sister, Delores Dickinson. Marilyn and Delores married brothers Harold and Rolland Dickinson, creating a special bond among the four filled with fun, laughter, and adventure.

A memorial service celebrating Marilyn’s life will be held on November 7, 2026, at 11:00 AM at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 425 Cleveland Ave. SW, Canton, OH 44702. Friends may visit with the family one hour prior, a reception will follow the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Marilyn’s memory to St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Canton, OH, or to the United Way of the Lakelands (previously known as United Way of Greenwood County), 929 Phoenix St, Greenwood, SC 29646 at www.uwlakelands.org.

Marilyn will be remembered for her devotion to family, her lifelong service to others, and the kindness and compassion she shared so freely throughout her long and meaningful life.