Richard "Dick" Allen Bigelow

Richard Allen Bigelow (Dick) of Durham, NC went to be with the Lord on Sunday, August 31, 2025. He was born on May 29, 1934 in Yeagertown, PA, and was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 66 years, Marrie Dorrine Rocco Bigelow, and by his parents, Richard Wilson and Dorothy Elizabeth.

Dick and Marrie began their marriage on May 21, 1955 in Lewistown, PA where Dick worked at The Viscose in the shipping department. Being deeply involved in the AFL-CIO at work, he was asked to become a union organizer for the southern textile mills. This work brought the Bigelow family to Durham, NC in 1968 to be closer to the factories. In the early 1970’s, Dick returned to his painting and wallpapering roots at DC May Co., and eventually started his own painting business, Bigelow Paint. In 1972 he met the Lord and faithfully followed his spiritual vocation, later becoming an ordained Minister.

Dick was an active member of the Durham Ministry outreach and community. He was a founding member, an elder, and an associate pastor at the church he fully dedicated himself to for 50 years, Christian Assembly. He not only served the members of his church and community, but also participated in many international mission trips specifically focused on the Turkmen people.

Dick is survived by his two brothers, John and Bob; his children Nancy, Cathy (Jude), Mary Kay, Bill (Kim), Anne-Marie, and Stephen (Leslie). Also surviving are his myriad of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, granddogs and great-granddogs who he loved very much and took great joy in spending time with.

He is deeply loved and will be missed by many. We rejoice and take comfort knowing that he is filled with joy to be in the presence of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and in Heaven, once again dancing with his wife.

A memorial service will be held at Christian Assembly Church located at 5516 N Roxboro St, Durham on October 25, 2025 at 2:00pm