Dixie Matthews

Dixie Lee Matthews, aged 91, passed away peacefully on September 28, 2024, at her home in Mansfield, Texas. She was born on May 15, 1933 in Des Moines, Iowa.

At a young age, her family moved to Santa Monica, California. She attended Santa Monica High School and the University of Southern California. Although she did not receive an official diploma from USC she did receive her MRS. degree. She met the love of her life William (Bill) Matthews there. They moved to Washington in 1980 and were happily married for 48 years. She then moved to Texas in 2013 to be closer to her family.

Dixie lived a vibrant life marked by her optimistic outlook and her ability to see the best in everything and everyone. She approached life and people with open arms, making lifelong friends wherever she went. Her infectious spirit meant she never met a stranger, and her warmth was felt by everyone she encountered.

Dixie's entrepreneurial spirit shone brightly as she co-owned Hand in Hand Montessori School in Olympia, WA, where she touched the lives of many children and their families. Her commitment to community was evident in her involvement with many charitable organizations throughout her life.

She had a zest for life, enjoying martinis and vodka tonics, attending ladies' luncheons, participating in charity events, and traveling the world. Dixie cherished spending time with her family and friends, who were central to her life.

She leaves behind a loving family: daughter Susan Matthews; daughter Sharon Kale and partner John Mark Moore; grandchildren Matthew Gebhardt and spouse Liz, Shawn Gebhardt and spouse Rachel, Elizabeth Gebhardt, Travis Colfry and spouse Laura, and Jessica Colfry and spouse Mark; as well as great-grandchildren Millai, Brody, Ollie Colfry, Axel Gebhardt, Maddox, and Mia Thompson. Dixie was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Bill Matthews.

A Celebration of Life will be held November 2, 2024 from 2:00-6:00pm at Sharon's home. Contact her for location address. In lieu of flowers, contributions to a charity of your choice in Dixie's name would honor her memory beautifully. If you would like to send flowers, please have them sent directly to Sharon's home (contact her directly for her home address).