A local icon and community leader who helped revive one of the tri cities most recognizable landmarks as passed away.

News 5 learned tonight Merle Dickert, the executive director of Bristol's Paramount Theatre has died.

Dickert spent the last five years as the theatre's executive director.

Prior to leading the organization, she served as the marketing director.

She also worked for Virginia Intermont College for a short time.

In addition to her work at the Paramount, Dickert also severed on various community boards.