“a free spirit”

PORTLAND, Oregon—William Robert “Billy” Dickerson, 36, of Portland, formerly of Shinglehouse, Pa., passed away in the early morning hours of Thursday, December 1, 2022, in his home in Portland, after many years of opioid addiction that stemmed from chronic pain through the years.

Born on Wednesday, June 11, 1986 in Coudersport, he was a son of Don and Judy Strait Dickerson.

Billy was a graduate of Oswayo Valley High School, Class of 2004, in Shinglehouse.  He attended  Slippery Rock University and furthered his education majoring in Communications, minoring in French, graduating from Buffalo State University with a Bachelor of Science degree.  He also was given the opportunity to travel abroad to study in France for a semester.

He was previously employed in technical support for Apple in many cities throughout the country.

Billy enjoyed listening to all genres of music and was often found singing, dancing and living life to the fullest. Traveling was his passion.  Everyone who knew Billy, knew that he wanted to live.  His family and friends will remember his infectious laugh, love for adventure, and his sensitive soul.

Left to cherish his memory are his parents of Shinglehouse; two sisters, Amy Murray of Farmington, Pa. and Jennie (Eddie) Jackson of Genesee, Pa.; three nephews, Chase, Xavier, and Damion; a niece, Cassandra; his paternal grandfather, William Dickerson of Shinglehouse; several aunts, uncles, and cousins; and many friends across the country.

Billy was predeceased by his paternal grandmother, Theo Dickerson; his maternal grandparents, Robert and Dorothy Strait; and several aunts and uncles, who he adored.

Family and friends may call from 5pm to 7pm on Wednesday, December 14, 2022, at the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, 118 South Union Street, Shinglehouse, Pa., where a celebration of Billy’s life will follow at 7pm.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.

Billy’s family has entrusted his care and cremation arrangements to Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse, Pa.

To express condolences, light a candle or share a fond memory of Billy, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com or the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home Facebook page.