George Carroll Dicus

George Carroll Dicus, 74, of Benton passed away Monday, August 22, 2011 after a long illness and surrounded by his adoring family who lovingly cared for him in his final months. George was born May 19, 1937 in Little Rock, the son of the late Lonnie and Audrey Dicus. In 1959 he married his beloved Linda Jean (Moll), who survives him. George touched countless lives whether as a Deacon in his church, a Sunday School teacher, mentor or faithful friend. He was a veteran of the Arkansas Air National Guard and was a gifted multi-sport athlete. In addition to playing quarterback on his high school football team, George was an outstanding track and field competitor. George was also a star player on the legendary Little Rock Doughboys baseball club for three seasons in the 1950's where his manager George Haney nicknamed him "Mule." After playing professionally for a season in the Philadelphia Phillies organization, George decided to return to the home he loved so well. It was then he met and married Linda - whom he affectionately referred to by her middle name, Jean - and together they raised three children: Terri, Tracye and Scott. Despite his own numerous accomplishments, it was his family that he was most proud of and which were his hobby. George was a career railroad employee, joining Rock Island Railroad in 1956 and retiring from the Union Pacific Railroad. After long hours at work, George would come home and maintain an apartment complex that he and Linda owned for a number of years. Known for his firm but gentle spirit, George was the model of integrity, loyalty and service. He willingly, quietly and humbly served countless people throughout his life. Many carry special nicknames George bestowed on those whose lives he touched, and those who especially touched his. At the time of his death, George was a member of Geyer Springs First Baptist Church in Little Rock. He was also a long-time member of South Highland Baptist Church of Little Rock where he was ordained as a Deacon. In addition to his wife Linda, George is survived by his children Terri Mountjoy and her husband Billy of Benton; Tracye McKeown and her husband Richard of Bryant; and Dr. Scott Dicus of Searcy. He is also survived by his sister, Gay Davis and her husband Dewayne of Bentonville. George's brother Harold preceded him in death in 2004. George also leaves six grandchildren to celebrate his life and influence: Jessica Lammey of Benton; Jordan Mountjoy of Benton; Kristen Kitchens of Bryant; Nick Kitchens of Bryant; Zachary Dicus of Paragould; and Emery Dicus of Paragould. George also leaves one great-grandchild, Jackson Lammey of Benton; as well as his mother-in-law, Doris Burt of Little Rock; and several nieces and nephews. Visitation will be Tuesday from 6-8PM at Dial & Dudley Funeral Home in Bryant. Funeral Service will be at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, August 24 at Dial & Dudley Funeral Home with the Reverend Dave Hughey officiating. Burial will follow at Pinecrest Cemetery.