Patricia “Gale” Dickerson, 78, of Milton, passed away peacefully Friday, Feb. 27, 2026, at Delaware Hospice Center.  

Gale graduated from Milton High School in 1965. Soon after, she began her career in banking at Sussex Trust and steadily worked her way up through the profession, retiring after more than 40 years as branch manager of the Lewes office of M&T Bank.

In 1986, she married her second husband and the love of her life, George Dickerson. Together they enjoyed traveling, participating in the Corvette Club, and spending time on their boat – Gale reading while George fished for bass. They loved and cared for each other faithfully until George’s passing in June 2024.

Gale was a wonderful cook and a talented crafter. She enjoyed shopping, crocheting, cross-stitching, and reading, but her greatest joy was spending time with her family.

She will be greatly missed by her beloved son, “Donny” Jefferson and his wife Kimberly; her five grandchildren, Mikala Jefferson Warner (Mike), Skyler M. Butler (Katelyn), Tristin Butler (Jess), D. Luke Jefferson and Reese Crockett; and her great-grandchildren, Dakota and Mayleigh Warner, and Aubree and Paislee Butler, who brought her immense joy. She loved watching the little ones come to show off for her as they played dress-up. She was looking forward to meeting Jamison Butler, who is expected to arrive in a few months. Gale and George always treasured visits from their former son-in-law, Mike Crockett, who faithfully called and visited regularly.

Gale is also survived by her sister, Lorraine Hudson, and her nephew, “Buddy.”

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, George Dickerson; her parents, Henry Atkins and Alta May Atkins; and her stepmother, Hilda Atkins.

The family wishes to extend a special thanks to Pam Cook and Hilda Washburn, friends who were dear to Gale and helped care for her regularly while her son and daughter-in-law worked. Additionally, her granddaughter-in-law, Katelyn Butler, willingly stepped in to help whenever needed.

The family is also deeply appreciative of the staff of Delaware Hospice, especially her nurse, Jen Gardiner; CNA, Samara Price; and assistant director Lynn Stabner. Gale always looked forward to your visits and was grateful for the care and comfort you provided during her final days.

In accordance with Gale’s wishes, there will be no funeral service.

A private memorial service will be held by the family at a later date.