Marian Jennifer Dickens

Marian Jennifer Dickens was born on October 15, 1957, in Oakland, California, to Arthur and Beverly Dickens. Her father affectionately nicknamed her “Scoots” because she crawled around fast and never slowed down. She grew up on Fremont Street in Oakland before moving with her family to Richmond, California, in 1965. As a young girl, Marian enjoyed piano lessons, baton twirling, and participating in the Girl Scouts. One of her cherished memories was attending Marian Anderson’s farewell concert in San Francisco. Marian’s mother introduced her and her siblings (Cathy and David) to Christ during their youth. Marian’s family was active in church life, attending the First Congregational Church of Berkeley, where she occasionally helped in the nursery, caring for younger children. As a child, Marian enjoyed the holidays, especially Christmas, a passion she carried throughout her life. She and her dad, along with her brother and sister would put up and decorate an aluminum Christmas tree and would shine rotating lights on it.

Marian’s academic talents were evident early on. She started school a year ahead of her peers and skipped a grade, graduating from high school at the early age of 16 in 1974. She went on to attend her dream school, UCLA, where she earned both a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s degree in education, as well as a teaching credential.

Marian’s welcoming nature made her dorm and home a gathering place for friends and classmates, offering a space to talk, share a meal, or relax. She was always ready to lend a hand, tutoring those in need of academic help and offering guidance to access resources for success. An avid reader and skilled writer, Marian was resourceful to many for her proofreading expertise throughout her academic and professional life. During her time at UCLA, Marian developed a close bond with her “honorary sister,” Dr. L. Gail Garrett, who became her friend, sorority sister, confidant, co-worker, prayer partner, and her son Cameron’s godmother.

In 1975, Marian became a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., through which she actively supported community initiatives both locally and nationally. She was also involved with the Black Student Union and was an enthusiastic supporter of UCLA’s football team and the basketball team under Coach John Wooden. After graduation, Marian continued her involvement with the sorority as a member of the Los Angeles Alumnae Chapter, where she served as recording secretary.

In 1979, Marian began her career as a teacher. Dr. George McKenna hired her to teach Social Studies, Government, and Economics in the Magnet Program at Washington Preparatory High School, where she also served as Department Chair, Cheer Sponsor, and Magnet Coordinator. Known for her sharp fashion sense and strong political views, Marian was a fierce advocate for her students and colleagues. Her students loved her, honored her, admired her, and revered her. She had lasting relationships with many of her students, some of which later became her colleagues in the teaching profession. She was an active member of the UTLA teachers’ union and played a key role in writing the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Accreditation reports for Washington. Marian’s expertise in this area led her to serve on several WASC committees, evaluating schools throughout California.

She finished her distinguished career at Robert E. Peary Middle School, retiring in 2020 after 41 years of service [31 years – Washington Prep.| 10 years Peary Middle School].

Marian’s faith was central to her life. She accepted Jesus Christ as her Savior at an early age and was a committed member of Lincoln Memorial Congregation Church before joining Pilgrim Congregational Church. At Pilgrim, Marian found another “honorary sister,” Melody Ussery, who became a close friend and Cameron’s godmother. Marian led the Sunday School and Vacation Bible School programs, which were known for their creativity and professionalism, complete with rehearsals, props, and costumes. Her mindfulness and commitment to excellence shone through every aspect of her service – to the church, family, friends, and work.

In addition to her love for teaching the Bible, Marian was an exceptional cook, known for preparing lavish feasts. Whether it was a family gathering or a church event, Marian ensured there was always plenty of food, with everything made from scratch.

Marian’s life took on new meaning with the birth of her son, Cameron, in 1993. He became the absolute center of her world—her life, her everything. She poured her heart into giving him every opportunity, creating countless unforgettable memories with extravagant birthday parties, vacations, and family gatherings. Marian never missed a performance or event; if Cameron wanted something, she would go to great lengths to make it happen. One of their favorite traditions was visiting Disneyland, a magical place they enjoyed together until her health no longer permitted.

Christmas was and continued to be Marian’s favorite holiday throughout adulthood, and she made sure it was a time filled with joy—not just for Cameron, but for her beloved nieces and nephews, whom she cherished as if they were her own. The holidays were a special time for Marian, her parents, Cathy, and David, along with their extended families. Her Christmas celebrations became legendary, with homemade dishes like mac and cheese and peach cobbler turning into family traditions. As Cameron and her nieces and nephews grew older, Marian invited them to take part in the holiday preparations, teaching them family recipes and sharing cherished traditions.

No matter how busy life became, they would gather—often with “Grammy” (Marian’s mother)—even if only for a few hours. Marian’s home was the heart of these celebrations, radiating warmth and love. Her generosity made everyone feel welcome, and sharing her home and traditions was her way of showing how deeply she cared. In her presence, everyone felt genuinely loved.

In 2021, Marian was diagnosed with cancer. Her son Cameron was there by her side from the beginning to the end with the support of family and honorary sisters. True to her resilient nature, she fought the illness with strength and determination, insisting she would "go out kicking." Marian passed away on Saturday, October 5, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love, service, and faith.

She was preceded in death by her father, Arthur Dickens, and her nephew, Girard Henderson. Marian is survived by her beloved son Cameron Knowles, her mother Beverly Dickens, her sister Catherine Dickens-Williams, her brother and sister-in-law David and Junan Luster-Dickens, her nieces and nephews Jennifer Henderson [her name sake], Moriah Williams, Ammiel Williams, Mary Williams, Kadijia Dickens, Janah’n Dickens, John Arthur Thomas Dickens, and her great-nieces and nephews Makayla Jarmon, Jaylen Potter, Munzari Placido, and Marvaeh Placido. She is also survived by her “sisters-in-love,” Melodee Ussery and Dr. L. Gail Garrett.

"Marian will be remembered for her genuine warmth, her deep love for God, her family, and her students, as well as her steadfast dedication to excellence in everything she pursued."