Addressed as Grandpa by some and Uncle Leroy by many, Leroy Leslie Dickerson was born on October 28, 1934, in Canyon, Texas, to William M. and Nellie Arrella (Thompson) Dickerson. He graduated from West Texas A&M University with a degree in chemistry. He worked for Phillips Petroleum before moving to Idaho Falls, Idaho, to work at the Idaho National Laboratory on the mass spectrometer.

Leroy married Edwarda Leila (Feddy) Snyder Bell on June 10, 1967. She preceded him in death in 1995. Leroy’s brothers, Loyce Merle and Samuel Joseph, and sisters, Jean, Fay Dell, and Sue Nell, also died before him.

Leroy was a lover of the natural world. He was a hunter, a conservationist, and a steward of the land who cared deeply about it, and the animals and birds who live upon it. He shared these interests with his family and friends. He was a gifted painter. Many times, his art depicted the changing seasons and included bison, a favorite animal of Leroy’s. He was skilled in taxidermy, lapidary, and fly tying. Leroy loved his springer spaniels: Buster, Lucy, Crystal, and Jack.

Leroy also shared his passion for music and talent for playing the cello. A performer who later in life mastered the cello and for years was an active member of quartets. He loved classical music and listened to thousands of tapes and CDs. His early adoption of the iPod was his "good sleep" device, which was loaded with these classical compositions. On July 4th, he initiated the ceremonial placement of the American flag on the cabin deck, followed by the enthusiastic playing of Sousa marches.

Leroy spent many weekends at “the Cabin.” On frosty winter evenings and cool summer nights, spirited games of cribbage or fan tan were played. He and Feddy taught several generations the art of the games.

He loved American history, especially the Civil War, with an annual discussion about the progression of the Battle of Gettysburg on July 4th, and family reunions at the cabin.

He loved a good piece of pie, “It might not be good for my diabetes, but...” One of my fondest memories was the smile on his face when the waitress asked if he was ready for a slice of pie.

Leroy’s commitment to help Feddy raise and support her two boys, Rusty and Rick, was a lifelong challenge he met with quiet support and love. To our family, this was a huge gift he gave Feddy from the early 1970’s through his last years.

Leroy died on May 3, 2026, at 91 years of age. A visitation is planned from 5:00-7:00 in the evening on Friday, May 15, 2026, at Coltrin Mortuary, 2100 1st St., Idaho Falls. Burial will be at a later date in Canyon, TX. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.coltrinmortuary.com.