Richard Harris Dickens Sr.

Richard Harris Dickens, Sr. passed peacefully on Monday, March 23. Born on July 20th, 1943, he was the son of the late Harris Cordell Dickens and Volena Gibbs Dickens.

Richard, or “Dickie” in his youth, grew up in rural Tennessee where he loved fishing with his father, baseball, and the drums. He played percussion in the band and carried his love for music throughout his life.

After graduating from Madison High School, he enlisted in the US Navy where he spent some of his proudest years. Aboard an aircraft carrier, he served in the Cuban Missile Crisis, and met his two best friends, Jimmy Burke and Jerry Banks. He loved sharing his stories of times at sea with his children and grandchildren.

Following his time in the service, Richard attended the University of Tennessee where he earned his degree in accounting. He owned Dickens Tax Advisory for several years before his retirement. He was a proud Tennessee Vols supporter with football season as his favorite. He loved sports and had a sincere compassion for animals, embracing all the creatures his children and wife brought home over the years. He was a devoted member of Spring Valley Baptist Church for over 30 years where he met countless friends and served as an usher.

Above all else, Richard cherished his family. He raised his children alongside his wife of forty-two years, Pamela Dickens, and they were his pride and joy. He supported their dreams, never missing one of Madison’s theater performances, and traveling many weekends to watch Jordan on the soccer field. Later, Harris took up a love of soccer as well and Richard was there to cheer him on at every game. His love and belief in their dreams encouraged them to pursue any passion their hearts desired. Most affectionately known as Pappy, he was adored by his grandchildren, Elizabeth and Hayden. With them, he shared his love of the beach, animals, and the outdoors. He loved Elizabeth’s passion for church and cheerleading, and Hayden’s dedication to robotics. Even when he was physically unable to attend, he made sure they knew just how proud he was of their accomplishments.

He is survived by his children, Madison Altman (Brian) of Charleston, Jordan Dickens of Charleston and Richard Harris Dickens Jr. of Charleston, brothers-in-law Silas Wendell Holmes, Jr. (Teri) of Columbia and James Bradford Holmes of Fountain Inn, sister-in-law, Jane Holmes of Columbia, grandchildren Elizabeth Altman and Hayden Alman, along with nieces Rebecca Scout Holmes (Joe Gorman) and Sarah Holmes, nephew Trey Holmes, and great niece Pippi Holmes-Gorman. He was preceded in death by his wife, Pamela Holmes Dickens, parents Harris Cordell Dickens and Volena Gibbs Dickens, brother Glenn White, and sister-in-law Paula Dunn Holmes.

The memorial service for Mr. Dickens will be held at 1 o’clock on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at Spring Valley Baptist Church, 91 Polo Road Columbia, SC. The family will receive friends following the service at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Dorchester Paws of Summerville or Charleston Animal Society.

Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, is assisting the family.