Jerome "Jerry" Allyn Dines

In Loving Memory of Jerome Allyn “Jerry” Dines

April 20, 1940 – August 25, 2025

Jerome Allyn "Jerry" Dines, 85, passed away peacefully on August 25, 2025, in Portland, Oregon. Born April 20, 1940, in Newcastle, Indiana, Jerry dedicated his life to humanitarian service. He was brought up in the Church of the Brethren but dedicated his life to interfaith and ecumenical respect and understanding.

He moved to Lebanon as a graduate fellow at the American University of Beirut and a professor at Beirut University College for Women, where he met his wife, Rima Barnick Dines, at a Bible study. He then began his career in the 1980s, working with the Middle East Council of Churches to aid Palestinian refugees. He continued his tenure with Mercy Corps, serving with the organization for 35 years.

In 1985, due to escalating violence, Jerry evacuated his family to Cyprus, relocating to Portland, Oregon. He held numerous leadership roles, including Country Director in Pakistan, Director of the Afghanistan and Balkans programs, and Senior Program Officer. While based out of Mercy Corps headquarters in Portland, he traveled extensively, spending many months of the year in Asia and other regions.

Jerry, a gentle yet formidable advocate for peace and social justice, was known for his quiet demeanor, tenacious spirit, kindness, and remarkable resilience. His most profound act of compassion was his steadfast dedication as a caregiver to his wife, Rima, who lived with a disability for many years.

Jerry will be laid to rest next to Rima. He is survived by his children, Allyn and Robin; daughter-in-law, Holly; son-in-law, Tim; and grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents, Dorothy and Arthur, and sister Roberta.

A memorial service will be held in Portland, Oregon. In lieu of flowers, donations are requested to Mercy Corps or organizations supporting refugee aid and peacebuilding