Evette Maria Dickerson fondly known as “Ms. D,” passed away at the young age of 68. Queen to her children and the epitome of love and caring. She cherished her three daughters Nicole (Nikki), Rheema (Cocoa) and Raeven; and relished in being a grandmother to Edison, Ellis and Brooklyn who affectionately called her “Umi”. She fondly referred to her son-in-law Jeffrey as "Jeffrey Bo Dean." Evette stood for family first--sacrificing her own desires and needs. Through life’s obstacles, she remained optimistic and audacious. Her smile and dynamic attitude were contagious, lighting up every room she entered. Always spreading joy and knowledge to whomever she encountered, from her church community, members of her book club, strangers on the street to the bus drivers on her regular commutes.
Born to educate, Evette took pride in imparting wisdom unto people of all ages and backgrounds. Having received a Master’s Degree in Education from Indiana University and a Bachelor’s Degree from Morgan State University, Evette knew her mission in life was to enlighten people. After many years of teaching physical education and coaching basketball in Miami, Florida, she took her scholarly aptitude to the streets of South-Central Los Angeles and Atlanta, Georgia where she developed programs for underrepresented minority communities. As a lifelong community activist, she empowered gang members to use their God given talents towards making a difference in their neighborhoods. For years, she fought hard to bring about social change while working in some of the toughest cities in the country. Evette easily related to everyone and feared no one or anything, (except bugs :-)). She was truly comfortable in every environment and had the ability to communicate with anyone on any level. Evette was extremely passionate about education and helping others. Her desire to tutor children in SAT preparatory courses began in the early 2000s while working at The Princeton Review. Thereafter, she formed her own business called “Step At A Time,” a private tutorial company. With every parent and child she encountered, she would impress upon the importance of preparing for the college prep exam and assured them that she was “the instructor,” to help accomplish their goal. With her “Gotta Do It” attitude and “yes you can” cheers, her promise was to get each child to the higher education they desired and deserved. Her success rate was topnotch and her genius was astonishing.
Evette loved games shows. Her favorites were Jeopardy and Who Wants to Be A Millionaire. She was a whiz, often beating the television contestants from her living room. Back in the 80’s, she even appeared on the shows, $25,000 Pyramid and Press Your Luck. She often used game shows as a tool to teach her grandchildren trivia. She was also an extremely enthusiastic sports fan, and in her heyday a fierce competitor. Evette was a die-hard Lakers fanatic and she let everyone know it--proudly wearing her golden-purple lettered sweatshirt for any occasion. As a college women’s basketball coach for many years, she was ecstatic when the WNBA was established, frequenting games at Madison Square Garden. Although basketball was indeed special to her, Tennis was above all her sport. Whether competing in tournaments herself as a singles or doubles player, Evette truly enjoyed a dynamic tennis match. Like many, Venus and Serena Williams were her all-time favorite players. She attended the U.S. Open in New York on several occasions to see the Williams’ sisters and many other tennis professionals. She additionally loved to play pool and would dare anyone to challenge her capabilities, especially men. Her confidence was unmatched and her athletic ability effervescent.
Evette enjoyed telling stories and laughing a lot with her family and friends. Richard Pryor was her favorite comedian and she loved Diana Ross, often singing her lyrics with much animation. Her favorite color was green and she even owned a 1974 green Corvette as a young adult. Evette was vivacious, witty and a super smart lady. To her daughters, she was an angel, a protector, a fighter and most importantly a wonderful mother. She will be deeply missed.
SERVICES:
Evette Maria Dickerson will be Cremated on Wednesday, August 7, 2019 in Atlanta, GA. A private ceremony will be held in Hawaii at a later date. "In lieu of flowers," please donate to a cause of your choice that educates minority and underpriviledged youth.
