DIXIE WILSON
January 3, 1928 — August 18, 2018
Walnut Grove native Dixie Wilson gracefully passed at home on Saturday, August 18, surrounded by family.
Dixie Esther Mealer Wilson was born January 3rd,1928, in Sacramento. She was raised on the Delta by her parents Darrell & Bernice Mealer. On her first day of high school in Courtland, Dixie met George “Tim” Wilson. They became close friends, courted, and, after he returned from the army, and she attended Mills college, married in April of 1949 – embarking on a lifetime of love and adventure. The couple remained in the Delta, raising three sons.
Dixie and Tim traveled the world together – visiting 6 of the 7 continents. If it were up to Tim, they would’ve visited their only missing continent – Antarctica – but Dixie insisted it was too cold there. They also enjoyed flying together in their small private plane, and touring the Delta in her namesake cabin-cruiser, The Dixie.
In 1968, Tim and Dixie built their dream home on Dead Horse Island, overlooking the Mokelumne River. There they created many fond memories for friends and family alike. At Dead Horse, Dixie was known for always wanting a fire, and visiting grandchildren quickly learned to “bring in logs!” upon arrival.
Dixie’s final decade was made healthy and happy by her close friends Shahla “Sheri” Jafari and Cyrus Modjtahedi. What started as a caretaking position evolved into a friendship and close bond between Sheri, Cyrus, Tim, and Dixie.
Dixie resided in Walnut Grove for 90 years, an active member of the community and of the Walnut Grove Community Church. Dixie will be remembered for her love of people, especially those with cookies. She will be missed for her eternal optimism and joyful attitude that was contagious to all around her.
Dixie was preceded in death by her husband Tim, sister Katherine and her daughters-in-law Marian and Leslie Wilson. Dixie is survived by her sons: Darrell (Barbara), Chiles, and Daniel (Mary) Wilson; and by adoring grandchildren: Isaac (Katie), Noel (James) Johas, Patrick (Naomi), Caroline (Marcos) Scauso, Paul, Liz (Nick) Davison, Chiles Jr. and Alex Wilson. She is also survived by the “Wolf Pack” of all male great-grandchildren: Timmy, Jimmy, Owen, Carl, Atlas, Danny, and Bruce.
Dixie’s life was closely tied to the waters of the Sacramento Delta. As such, her celebration of life will be held outdoors at The Rivermaid Club on Saturday, September 1st @ 10:30 AM, followed by a light lunch & refreshments. Dixie wished that all in attendance wear colorful clothing (not black) to her service. In lieu of flowers, Dixie would prefer a donation to the Walnut Grove Community Church.
Dixie Wilson Celebration of Life, Saturday, September 1, 2018 @ 10:30AM at The Rivermaid Club 14825 Isleton Rd Isleton, CA 95641 **Vibrant & Colorful attire is encouraged, Per Dixie’s Request! In lieu of flowers, please mail donations to: Walnut Grove Community Presbyterian Church PO Box 93, 14120 Grand Avenue Walnut Grove, CA 95690