Richard (Dick) L. Dionne

It is with heavy hearts that we tell of the passing of Richard (Dick) L. Dionne on 16 September 2026 at his home in Mountain city.  He is survived by his wife, Nella, of 46 years, his son Albert J. Dionne (Irina), his daughter Dianne Kennedy (Matthew), Nella's son Robert W. Chambers (Frankie), and sister Sharon Richards.  He has 4 grandchildren, 4 great grandchildren, and several nephews and nieces living in Florida, Carolinas and Massachusetts.  He is preceded in death by his father Albert Dionee, mother Elizabeth Bowers Dionne, and brother Charles Dionne.  

Dick was raised in the Catholic Church; was an acolyte in Good Shepard Catholic Church, North Uxbridge MA.  He was a devout Christian and believed strongly in its teachings and applied them to his daily living.  

Dick was a US Air Force veteran of 30 yrs, 2 months, and 28 days--the USAF had to kick him out he was having so much fun!  His career field was electronics and seismic operations followed by workforce development.  While in the USAF his assignment involved travel to every continent but Antarctica; the intrigues of Europe, the jungles of Thailand, the deserts of Spain-Turkey-Iran, ice fields of Iceland, the islands of SE Asia, and the beaches of Florida!

Dick was always interested in American history, especially the Civil War period, and the political aspects that affect people's lives.  After his military career he taught American history at the University of Central Florida, Orlando FL, and Brevard Community College in Melbourne FL.  He gave presentations to private and public groups on American history and the American flag using his collection of flags to demonstrate the historical trail.  Political science was a favorite interest and way to spend an afternoon, but it did not interfere with watching a New England Patriot's game.

Dick moved to Mountain City in 1995, became active in the American Legion and held positions as high as TN Vice Commander for East TN.  He also is a life member of the VFW.  He was active in the Johnson County Honor Guard for many years (25+) and was its commander for 15+ years until his physical condition prevented his total involvement.  He was active in the Johnson County Humane Society.

We have so much to be thankful for:  the very attentive services of Gentiva Hospice, especially Chris, Sue Ann and Linda; the very helpful support of the County VA Service Officer Bill Caldwell and the VA Family Support Group; and the best friends anyone could ask for.  

Military services will be at Hux & Lipford Funeral Home, Saturday, September 19, 2026 at 4:00 pm accorded by the Johnson County Honor Guard, and the family will receive guests beginning at 3:00 pm.  In place of flowers, donations to Wounded Warrior Project, Tunnel to Towers, the Johnson County Humane Society, PO Box 307, Mountain City, TN 37683, or to the Johnson County Honor Guard, 1039 Big Dry Run Rd, Mountain City,TN 37683 will be much appreciated. 

Online Condolences and memories may be sent to the family through our website at www.huxlipfordfh.com.

Hux & Liford Funeral Home 300 W. Main Street, Mountain City, TN is honored to serve the family of Richard (Dick) L. Dionne.