
It is with profound sorrow that Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College (MGCCC) announces the passing of Marcus Dickey, a beloved defensive lineman for the college’s football team. Dickey, 22, tragically lost his life in a car accident on Sunday afternoon, August 24, 2025, while returning to Perkinston from Nicholls State University following a game.
Born and raised in Biloxi, Mississippi, Marcus was a standout athlete at Biloxi High School, where he earned First-Team All-State honors in the MHSAA 6A classification as a senior in 2020. His exceptional performance on the field garnered attention and paved the way for his next steps in football.
Marcus continued his athletic journey at Nicholls State, spending the 2022 season on the practice squad and appearing in nine games in 2023 as a redshirt freshman, recording two tackles. Demonstrating both ambition and a drive for growth, he transferred to Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College where he quickly made his presence known.
At MGCCC, Marcus distinguished himself not only through his athletic prowess but also through his character. Coach Jack Wright fondly remembered Marcus as “the kind of kid who was the first one in the meeting, one of the first guys out at practice, one of the hardest workers in the weight room.” He said, “He always had a big ol’ smile on his face. He was everything you would want out of a teammate. Everything.”
MGCCC President Dr. Mary S. Graham expressed deep sadness at Marcus’s passing: “We are heartbroken by the passing of Marcus Dickey. Our deepest sympathies go out to his family, friends, teammates, and coaches, during this very difficult time. In tribute to Marcus and in support of its community, MGCCC has made counseling services available to players, coaches, and staff affected by the tragedy.
Details regarding funeral arrangements are being handled by Dickey Brothers Memorial Funeral Home in Biloxi. The college plans to dedicate the 2025 football season to his memory, with Coach Wright stating the team will “play and honor him this week and the rest of the year”.
Marcus’s journey from a home-grown Biloxi hero to a cherished teammate at MGCCC is a testament to his dedication, perseverance, and spirit. He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, positivity, and camaraderie—qualities that resonated deeply with his peers and coaches alike.
In this time of grief, the MGCCC community—and indeed, the broader Mississippi Gulf Coast—stands united in remembrance of Marcus Dickey. His loss is deeply felt, and his memory will forever be woven into the fabric of the program and the hearts of all who knew him.