Samuel Bruce Dickerson, Jr., known lovingly as Bruce or "Brucie" to a select few, passed away peacefully on April 20, 2025, just three days before his 74th birthday. Born on April 23, 1951, in Oxford, North Carolina, Bruce was the eldest child of the late Samuel Bruce Dickerson and Laura Virginia Emory.
On June 10, 1973, Bruce married his lifelong partner, Valinda Ann Parrott. Together, they shared over 50 years of marriage built on love, faith, and an unwavering dedication to family. Bruce was a devoted husband, a caring father, and a proud grandfather who found his greatest joy being with those he loved.
He is preceded in death by brother-in-law David Stem and sister-in-law Dena Dickerson and survived by his wife, Valinda; his son, Brian Dickerson, granddaughter Ryann, his daughter, Laura Jean Stewart (Adam) and grandchildren Chase and Shepherd. He is also survived by his siblings—Gordon Dickerson, Paula Stem, Becky Forbes (Dennis), and Laura Lynn Lunsford—who will always remember his steady presence, humor, storytelling, constant singing and deep care for those around him.
Bruce loved the outdoors. He often took ATV trips to West Virginia with friends, fished at the Greene Farm with family and at Kerr Lake with Robert Musgrove, and set up wildlife cameras to capture all his furry friends – just none named Herman.
He will be remembered for his integrity, humility, and the kindness he extended freely to others. Bruce was a man who led by example, and his legacy of love and faith will continue to inspire all who knew him.
A celebration of life will be held on May 16 at 11 a.m. at Oxford Baptist Church in Oxford, North Carolina. All who knew and loved Bruce are warmly invited to attend and honor his memory.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Bruce's memory to Duke Hospice (4321Medical Park Drive, Durham NC 27704) or Oxford Baptist Church (147 Main Street, Oxford NC 27565)—two places that reflect the values he held close and the compassion he showed throughout life.
Arrangements are by Sossamon Funeral Home of Oxford. Online condolences may be made at www.sossamonfuneralhome.com.