William Dickey

Born on May 6, 1941 in DeLeon Texas, to Martha “Lissie” Chancellor and William Henry Dickey. He passed away on January 28, 2025 in Colleyville, Texas. William was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother and uncle to his large family. He was married over 60 years to Janet Willhoite, with whom he had 2 children, Darla and Gayla, and 4 grandchildren. 

Many knew William as man with a heart of gold, a generous and welcoming presence to those around him. Although he was a quiet man, he had a remarkable gift for speaking just the right words to uplift and comfort his family and friends. He was an avid golfer in his younger years and enjoyed golfing and drinking coffee with his buddies every morning at 6am. 

His youthful energy endeared him to children. With a natural ability to connect with them, he could meet them at their level, making them laugh with his playful humor, silly jokes, and lighthearted antics that created a special bond. This special bond was never more apparent than with his own nephews, nieces, and especially his grandchildren—Colby, Kelsey, Kinley and Lily—who called him Papa and who he loved dearly. He will always be remembered for his amazing hugs as well… those big hugs were always available, and he had that innate sense for knowing just when to offer one up to brighten your day. 

William loved listening to old-time gospel music and attending his local church, where he made life-long friends. His love for Jesus was the most important thing about him. He shared this love with those who knew him and planted seeds of faith wherever he saw the opportunity. One of his favorite verses, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16) We take great comfort in knowing he spent joyful time with his family and simply closed his eyes, as in rest, before he passed into eternal glory with his loving Father in Heaven.

William was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Carol Dodd. Left to carry on his legacy are his wife, Janet Willhoite Dickey, his children, Darla (Theo) Davis, and Gayla (Jeremy) McPherson. His four grandchildren, Colby (Maddie) McPherson, Kinley McPherson, Kelsey and Lily Davis. His siblings, Waylon Daniels, Neta Sue Basham, and Danny Dickey, as well as many nieces, nephews and beloved cousins. 

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, February 4 from 5-7pm. A celebration of life will be held Wednesday, February 5, at 11:00 a.m. at Journey Church located 4309 Colleyville Blvd, Colleyville, TX 76034