The community of Fredericton is mourning the passing of Randy Eric Dickinson, who died on May 18, 2026, at Dr. Everett Chalmers Hospital at the age of 71. His death marks the loss of a respected leader, advocate, and humanitarian whose lifelong commitment to accessibility and equality profoundly shaped the lives of people across Canada.

Born on June 23, 1954, in Woodstock, Randy dedicated his career to advancing the rights and dignity of people living with disabilities. He became a leading voice in accessibility advocacy, serving in influential roles including Executive Director of Camp Rotary and Easter Seals New Brunswick. He also helped establish the Premier’s Council for Disabled Persons, an organization that played a key role in shaping disability policy within the province.

Throughout his professional life, Randy Dickinson was widely recognized for his leadership in advancing landmark legislation, including contributions to both the New Brunswick Accessibility Act and the federal Accessible Canada Act. His work helped lay the foundation for improved accessibility standards and greater inclusion across communities, institutions, and public services. His efforts left a lasting structural impact that continues to benefit Canadians today.

Randy’s contributions were recognized at the highest levels. He was appointed to the Order of Canada in 1999 and later received the Order of New Brunswick in 2022, honors that reflected not only his professional achievements but also his lifelong dedication to public service and social justice. These distinctions underscored the national significance of his advocacy work and his influence on accessibility policy.

Beyond his public accomplishments, Randy was deeply valued for his personal qualities. Friends, colleagues, and loved ones remember him as compassionate, thoughtful, and consistently willing to help others. He was actively involved in community service, including volunteering with York Sunbury Search and Rescue and supporting a wide range of charitable initiatives. His generosity of spirit and calm wisdom left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

He is lovingly remembered as a devoted husband to Karen Dickinson and a caring family man whose relationships were central to his life. Those close to him describe him as a source of encouragement and strength, someone who combined professional excellence with genuine warmth and humility.

A Celebration of Life for Randy Dickinson is scheduled for May 31, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at McAdam’s Funeral Home, with Words of Tribute beginning at 3:00 p.m. Accessible accommodations, including parking and livestream access, will be provided for attendees.

As the community reflects on his legacy, Randy Eric Dickinson is being remembered not only for the policies he helped shape, but for the compassion, dignity, and unwavering commitment to inclusion that defined his life’s work.