Albert Michael Dickson

Albert, known as “Dick” to his friends, was born June 16, 1928, to Alexander Sr. and Mary Theresa Dickson. He was the third child of four children. His brothers, Alexander Jr. and Thaddeus, and sister, Angella—all preceded him in death. A Washington, D.C. native, Albert attended Cleveland Elementary, Shaw Junior High, and he graduated from Armstrong High School in 1946. Albert was drafted into the Army in 1951. He obtained the rank of Master Sergeant and received numerous awards for his service. Following his return from serving in the Korean War, Albert married the love of his life, Gloria. Albert and Gloria met while in high school. They were united in marriage in 1953. They lived and loved for over 60 years, until Gloria’s death in 2014. Albert had a long and productive career with the U.S. Postal Service, spanning over 40 years. He was a supervisor at the Main Post Office, serving on the Railway Mail Service until the line was discontinued. He was then transferred to the Post Office at Reagan National Airport and remained there until his retirement in 1985. Like his parents, Albert proudly lived his Christian values. He was a long and faithful servant at Asbury United Methodist Church. Albert’s father was one of 10 children, all baptized at Asbury. But Albert’s mother was Catholic and she raised him as a Catholic. Albert’s mother served as organist at Asbury, from 1920 to 1945. Every Sunday, Albert attended 7:00 a.m. mass with his mother and headed to Asbury with his mother for 11:00 a.m. service at Asbury. When he turned 18 and old enough to choose for himself, Albert decided he wanted to be baptized at Asbury. Albert served Asbury in many capacities, including as a member of the Administrative Board. He was a favorite Lay Speaker, recognized for his heartfelt and fervent prayers. Hearing Albert pray was a gift. Albert was a dedicated member of Asbury’s United Methodist Men. He served as President of UMM Group 9. Albert’s strong and memorable voice earned him a starring role in an original play presented at Asbury, The Pearl. Albert lived a good and full life. He loved to play Poker, Bid Whist, Pokeno, and enjoyed visiting nearby casinos to play the slot machines. An enthusiastic sports fan, Albert had season tickets to see the Redskins. He also was an avid bowler. But his interests were varied and not limited to sports, Albert also loved to read. He especially enjoyed reading mysteries. Albert had an encyclopedic memory, when called upon, Albert could share historical facts from years past, down to the date.Memories of Albert will be cherished by nieces, a nephew, great nieces and great nephews. He also will be remembered and missed by his devoted friend, Thelma Wheeler; lifelong friend, William Barrow “Sarge,” his Asbury Family, and a host of other friends whose lives he touched in good and immeasurable ways.

Tributes

Albert Michael Dickson

June 16, 1928 - August 20, 2020