Jean “Dixie” Dickinson, 79 years, of Halifax passed away Sunday June 13, 2010 after a long illness. She is survived by her sister and brother in law Jackie and Bill Mellen and her nieces Donna, Kathy and Carol, her close friends Charlie and Ann Lawrence and their children Charles, Scott, Elizabeth, Dean and Grace and their families as well as her devoted friends Katherine and Marvin Wolfthal who were so faithful to her during her illnesses.
Following her service in the US Army during the Koreran Conflict, she attended the University of Massachusetts Amherst and graduated class of 1957. Dixie worked for many years as a laboratory scientist and was a founding member of the Goddard Lab in Brockton and worked there for many years. She described herself as a “yankee” and true to the name, she loved life on her own terms. A passionate lover of children and animals, Dixie had many dogs and cats over the years which she showered with affection. She loved conversation, argument, humor and practical jokes. She loved the countryside and the wonders of nature. Dixie was a private person but touched many people. An avid reader and computer enthusiast, Dixie was always on the cutting edge of political and social justice issues.
At the center of Dixie’s life was her Catholic faith. She was a caring, generous person and charitable beyond her means. A communicant at St. Ann’s Parish in West Bridgewater, Dixie always tried to live the gospel message without compromise. A focal point for her was the Holy Cross Father’s Retreat House at Stonehill College in No. Easton, MA where she enjoyed a large community of friends. She was a unique and special person and she will be missed.
Funeral from the Conley Funeral Home, 138 Belmont Street (Rte 123) Brockton Friday at 9 am followed by a Funeral Mass in St. Ann Church, 95 North Main St., W. Bridgewater at 10am. Burial in St. Mary Cemetery, Randolph. Visiting hours Thursday 5-8pm. In lieu of flowers donations in Dixie’s memory may be made to The Holy Cross Father’s Retreat House at Stonehill College, 490 Washington St., North Easton, MA 02356.