Kent's obituary
Kent J. Dickinson, age 76, passed away peacefully in his sleep on April 16, 2025.
Kent is survived by his beloved daughter, Kimberly Stambaugh, her husband Thomas Stambaugh, his cherished granddaughter Annie Stambaugh, and his great-granddaughter Ameliah Pratt. He also leaves behind many treasured family members, friends, and neighbors in Payson, AZ, and across the country.
Born on January 21, 1949, in Richmond, California, to Dwight Campbell Dickinson and Evangeline Leota Dickinson (Overton), Kent spent most of his youth and early adult years in Northern California. A proud graduate of Miramonte High School, Class of 1968, he began his career in the tire and auto industry.
In 1978, Kent moved to Phoenix, Arizona, with his then-wife Kay Gibson and daughter Kimberly. There, he worked as an assistant manager at Central and Cordova Tire stores. In 2002, he relocated to Payson, Arizona, where he embraced life in the scenic mountain town he loved so dearly.
Kent enjoyed a fulfilling role as a security guard for Chaparral Pines / Rim Country, eventually retiring from High Desert Security LLC. Even in retirement, Kent found joy in the simple things—spending time with family, running errands around town, and striking up conversations with the many people whose lives he touched.
He had a remarkable gift for storytelling—whether it was tales of mountain lion encounters, new construction in town, or adventures from his days driving limousines in the Bay Area, Kent always had a captivating story to share. Above all, he was immensely proud of his family and the life he built.
Kent was a devoted father, loving grandfather and great-grandfather, and a true friend to many. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.