Longtime Alabama Congressman Dies

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP) - Former Alabama Congressman Bill
Dickinson, part of the Barry Goldwater sweep that helped turn
Alabama into a two-party state, died last night. He was 82.
Longtime aide Walter Bamberg said Dickinson passed away at his
Montgomery home after suffering from colon cancer.
Dickinson, a former judge in city, juvenile and circuit courts
in Opelika, was one of several Democrats recruited to change
parties in 1974 and run as Republicans for Congress in a state that
had been solidly Democratic for a century.
Dickinson served on the House Armed Services Committee, where he
became the ranking Republican member. On the committee, Dickinson
was an ardent defender of military spending through the Vietnam War
and protected military bases that were an important part of
Alabama's economy.
Dickinson's funeral is tentatively planned for Saturday at First
United Methodist Church in Montgomery, with the time to be
determined. Burial will be in Opelika.
Survivors include his wife, Barbara, and four children.

Senator Harri Anne Smith released the following statement about Dickinson's death:

“Alabama has lost a giant political figure. Congressman Dickinson was a pioneer in the Republican Party who never forgot his conservative Alabama roots. His commitment to a strong national defense, agricultural promotion, fiscal soundness and economic growth are a shining example of what public service is all about.

As a lifelong resident of South Alabama, I take great pride in what Congressman Dickinson meant for our district, our state and nation.

My husband Charlie and I extend our deepest sympathy to the Dickinson family in their time of sorrow.”

(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)