Born Feb. 26, 1940, Dickson started his career at the University on Nov. 10, 1959, shortly after graduating from Washington Technical High School, where he studied commercial foods. He worked with food services until 1972 and transferred to the police department in 1973. He retired June 1, 2001.

"I don't think you could ask to meet a more caring and thoughtful person," Chief of University Police Don Strom said. "He always had a smile and was always willing to do something for anyone else. He was someone who cared not only about the University, but he genuinely cared about the people."

Dickson was extremely active in Mount Olive Baptist Church, and could often be found playing the piano, singing in various church choirs, driving elderly deacons to the grocery store or helping mothers who didn't have cars get to and from the church.

"He wanted to be a servant for other people," said niece Karen Harvey. "He never questioned why you needed things, and he never asked for anything in return. He would give to others and deny his own self, as long as he knew it was helping someone else."

And that helped him carry out his duties with pride. He helped during the 2000 presidential debate and was as a service officer with University Police, which included collecting Olin Library's money for overnight security.

"When I first started here 20 years ago, Ron was the service officer for the library," said Virginia Toliver, associate dean of University Libraries. "He was a dependable and committed employee who loved his job and loved working at Washington University.

"His loyalty, love and commitment to Washington University never changed. I will miss him, both as a colleague and a very dear friend."