Obituary of Garrett T. Dickinson

Garrett Thomas Dickinson, age 40, of Honeoye Falls, New York, passed away on Tuesday, January 29, 2026.

Garrett was born in Rochester, New York, on August 13, 1985, to the late George Thomas Dickinson III and Mary Cugell Dickinson. He grew up in Gates Chili before moving to Honeoye Falls in 1999. He attended McQuaid Jesuit High School, graduating in 2003. During his time in Honeoye Falls, Garrett volunteered with the Honeoye Falls Fire Department and Ambulance Service, a reflection of his early commitment to helping others. He went on to earn his Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, magna cum laude, from SUNY Brockport in 2010, followed by his Master of Social Work degree from the University at Buffalo.

Garrett devoted his career to social work, answering calls and supporting individuals through their darkest and most vulnerable moments. From 2012 to 2024, he worked at the Veterans Crisis Line, serving as a Crisis Responder, Supervisor, and Team Operations Coordinator, and played a key role in establishing the Topeka, Kansas onsite call center. This work was deeply meaningful to him, and he was respected for his compassion, steady presence, and commitment to both his colleagues and the veterans he served.

Garrett had a rare way of connecting with people. He made others feel seen, heard, and reassured, often leaving them feeling less alone than when they first connected. His presence made a lasting impact on many, and those who knew him were better for having known him.

Like his father, Garrett lived with Type 1 diabetes and faced multiple health challenges throughout his life. He carried these with quiet strength and resilience, continuing to care deeply for others even as he navigated his own difficult journey. Earlier this fall, he underwent LVAD heart surgery and was learning to adapt to a new way of life with courage and grace.

Garrett loved his dog, Harvey, a Great Pyrenees, above all else. He was a devoted fan of the Baltimore Orioles, the New York Giants, and the New York Knicks. He enjoyed building LEGO sets, taking naps, engaging in spirited political debates, and spending time with his family and friends.

Garrett was predeceased by his father, George T. Dickinson III, and is survived by his mother, Mary Cugell Dickinson of Inverness, Florida; his younger sister, Meaghan Dickinson of Atlanta, Georgia; and his younger brother, Christopher Dickinson of Inverness, Florida. He is also survived by his godmother and aunt, Patricia Savino (John); aunts and uncles Eileen Cugell (Dave Tansek), Joan Cugell, Bunny Lewis (Paul), Cate Chau (Richard), Peggy Cugell, Terry McGehee (Mark), Brenda Page (Mike), and Bernadette Karam (Sam); along with many loving cousins, dear friends, and his devoted companion, Harvey Dickinson.

Friends may call Friday, February 6, 2026 from 4-7 pm at the Merton H. Kays Funeral Home, Inc. 59 Monroe Street, Honeoye Falls where his Services will be held Saturday 10 am. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Garrett’s memory to the American Diabetes Association.