William Dixon, 86, retired Phila. police detective

William Lawrence Dixon, 86, of East Mount Airy, a retired Philadelphia police detective, died Thursday, Feb. 5, of complications from pulmonary disease at Fairview Care Center Bethlehem Pike in Chestnut Hill.

Born and reared in West Philadelphia, he graduated from Overbrook High School in 1945. He enlisted in the Navy in 1945 and served in the Seventh Fleet aboard the Merrimack, a fleet oil tanker.

Following his military service, Mr. Dixon was employed at the former Frankford Arsenal as an optical etcher, engraving glass used in Army telescopes and binoculars. Later, he worked for the Signal Corps, archiving classified material, his family said.

In 1958, he joined the Police Department, and specialized in undercover assignments with the vice squad. In 1967, he was promoted to detective in the rape and robbery squad. Later, he became a supervisor. He received numerous awards and commendations over the course of his career.

After retiring from the Police Department in 1982, Mr. Dixon joined the security force at Philadelphia Gas Works. He retired for the last time in 1995.

Mr. Dixon was married for 62 years to Gladys Thomas. The two enjoyed cruises in the Caribbean. He also enjoyed watching the Eagles and the Phillies and spending time at his summer home in Whitesboro, N.J., where he barbecued and entertained.

"He was always the photographer for all our activities and outings," said daughter Denise Dancy.

Mr. Dixon was active in the community as an assistant coach for the West Oak Lane Raiders Little League team, a block captain, and a member of his neighborhood Town Watch. He also was a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars in Cape May.

A longtime member of Mount Pleasant Baptist Church in Philadelphia, he served as trustee and usher. In 2010, when he was named the church's Father of the Year, the whole congregation celebrated, Dancy said.

Surviving beside his wife and daughter are another daughter, Debbie Beeks; four grandchildren; and a great-granddaughter.

A viewing from 9:30 to 11 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 12, at Mount Pleasant Baptist Church, 5539 Vine St., will be followed by funeral services at 11 a.m. Interment will be in Rolling Green Memorial Park, West Chester.