William Byrom Dickens
William Byrom Dickens, emeritus professor, died July 23 at age 96. Dickens grew up in Estill Springs, Tenn. He graduated from the University of the South in 1929 and later earned a master’s degree in English from Syracuse University, where he taught for seven years. While at Syracuse, he and a friend took turns paying college and living expenses for two years or so: one would be in Ann Arbor, going to graduate school; the other would be in Syracuse, teaching and supporting both of them. He got his Ph.D. in English from U-M in 1953. His dissertation was titled “A Guide to the American Political Novel, 1865-1910.”
During World War II Dickens served in the Army for three years and eight months. At the time of his discharge he was in the Office of Strategic Services, the forerunner of the Central Intelligence Agency.
After the war, he was appointed assistant professor, Department of English, in the College of Engineering. He taught courses in literature, composition and speech.
In Ann Arbor he was a frequent dinner guest at the homes of friends. His technique for reciprocating was to invite his hosts to an evening meal at a good restaurant followed by a concert at Hill Auditorium. He became so popular that in later years it took two nights of dinners and concerts to handle the large number of friends.
Dickens retired as associate professor in 1966. For his retirement years he returned to Tennessee. He wrote a history of his hometown, Estill Springs, which the county historical society published and distributed. He spent his last 23 years at McKendree Village in Hermitage, Tenn.
Burial was in the Estill Springs cemetery. A memorial service is being scheduled. Memorial gifts may be made to McKendree Golden Cross, or to a church or charity of one’s choice. They may be sent care of his brother, Wade Dickens, 4500 Post Road, #H-73, Nashville, TN 37205-1500.
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