On June 17, 2026, Richard “Dicky” Covey Robertson, Sr., was called home to Glory at the age of 67. In an act of love and courage, Dicky lost his life while attempting to do what Dicky did best - being selfless. His life—and especially his final moments—beautifully reflected the words of Christ: “Greater love has no one than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” — John 15:13.

Dicky was born on March 25, 1959, in Gadsden, Alabama to the late Jack Westbrook Robertson, Jr. and the late Gwenette Phillips Robertson. He was the youngest of five children. Dicky moved with his family to Jackson shortly after he was born and lived here the remainder of his life. He was a graduate of Jackson Preparatory School and a 3rd generation, lifetime member of First Presbyterian Church in Jackson.

He was also a graduate of the University of Mississippi and loved his Rebels as well as his Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity Brothers.

Dicky absolutely lived life to the fullest. He was fearless and fun and adored by both young and old. He was greatly loved and admired by so many people for who he was. His integrity, kindness, focus, compassion, faith, humor, intelligence, wit, sarcasm, a willingness to help others, as well as his joy for life will always define who he was. He also had a deep love for animals, especially his lab, Daisy.

One of his most well-kept secrets was his musical talent. He thoroughly enjoyed writing songs for a special occasion or a friend and then impressing listeners with a surprise performance of his original creation while accompanying himself on his guitar.

While Dicky avidly enjoyed snow skiing, his very favorite skiing was on the water. At every opportunity, Dicky could be found doing what he loved most, which was barefoot waterskiing. He loved everything about it. He loved doing it; he loved watching others do it and he loved teaching others how to do it - the number in the hundreds and that’s just those that are documented. He was a South Central Region Skier and had mastered some of the most difficult stunts and, even at the age of 67, was able to impress anyone willing to watch.

Dicky is preceded in death by his parents, Gwenette and Jack Robertson, and by his oldest brother, John W. Robertson, III.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Lea Ann Oliver Robertson, and his children, Dr. Richard Covey Robertson, Jr. (Sarah), Erin Robertson Pavatte (Mason), William Woodward Robertson, and Latresa Brooke Gurley (Matt). As well as ten grandchildren who affectionately called him, Dic Dic & Pop Pop: Bailey and Lake Gurley; Ellie, Covey III, Suzy, Gordon and Nelson Robertson; Harper Mae, Cannon and Lawrence Pavatte.

He is also survived by three siblings, Bess Robertson Corbitt (Steve), James Hilbun Robertson, Marie Robertson Rickels (Jeff) and a myriad of adoring nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to be made to either African Bible College or Webster Animal Shelter (Madison, MS).