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Joan Adsit Dickinson
Joan Adsit Dickinson, 81, of Bradenton died June 10 surrounded by her loving family.
She was born May 17, 1945, in Willmar, Minnesota, to Wesley and Rhoda Dickinson.
She graduated from the University of Wisconsin, Madison, with a Bachelor of Arts, then went on to earn her doctoral degree from the University of Colorado, Boulder.
She wore many hats throughout her career as a psychologist, professor of psychology, and director of behavioral health services. She went on to teach yoga and meditation and began writing, as a columnist and later author of several historical fiction and mystery novels.
She had a zest for life palpable to all who came to know and love her. She loved her professional life in Minnesota, and cherished her time on Anna Maria Island, swimming, fishing and kayaking.
She pursued her dreams of writing with gusto and worked up until her final days to publish her works.
As a mother, she was a constant source of comfort, encouragement and guidance. Her sense of humor, compassion and inspiration made her beloved and now deeply missed by family, friends and everyone fortunate to know her.
Memorial donations may be made to the American Civil Liberties Union or the American Cancer Society.
A celebration of life will be held at a future date.
Ms. Dickinson is survived by her daughter Sarah and husband Brian Berejik; grandchildren Kaitlyn and Tommy Berejik; sisters Nancy Dowell, Susan Pedersen and Mary Dexter; brother Robert; and many nieces, nephews and dear friends.
Neil James Thaggard Jr.
The stage lights dimmed May 29 when James Thaggard Jr., 69, a familiar face onstage and behind the scenes at the Island Players theater, died.
He was born July 7, 1956, in Bradenton and grew up with a devoted mother, younger brother and a career military father on naval bases across the United States and the world.
He enjoyed being the center of attention and performed in school plays growing up. After graduating high school in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, he excelled as a theater major at Auburn University. After college, he returned to the Suncoast and devoted his life to live theater in the area.
A marvelously quick-witted and inventive soul, he excelled at all things theater, whether as an actor, director, instructor or administrator. He delighted audiences with his captivating talent for dramatic and comedic roles at the Island Players, Manatee Players, Siesta Key Actor’s Theatre and the Sarasota Players.
“He truly lived a thousand lives,” said longtime friend Shirley Foley.
He was employed over the years at the Ringling Museum, Southeast High School and State College of Florida. At SCF, he enjoyed yearly trips to New York City with theater students.
He called himself “The Archbishop of Bradenton,” having officiated many weddings for friends and family, bringing his signature blend of humor, affection and professionalism to each occasion.
His friends and admirers have many stories of his quick wit, acerbic political commentary, unrelenting love of puns, great laugh and gusto for life. He will be enormously missed.
A celebration of life was held June 13. Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory was in charge of arrangements.
Memorial donations may be made to the N. James Thaggard Theatre Scholarship in care of Cassandra Holmes, SCF Foundation, Building 7, 5840 26th St. W., Bradenton, FL 34207, or at 941-752-5390.
Mr. Thaggard is survived by brother Steve and wife Barbara; nephew Robert and wife Julia; great-niece Kylie; cousins Pat Corbus, Lili Corbus and husband Madison, Nate Bezner and wife Jessica, Jean Rasmussen, Meghan Gamin, John and Joe; as well as a host of devoted friends and colleagues.