Dixie R. Taylor

Dixie Ruth Taylor, 81 of Fairbury, NE went to be with the Lord on July 7, 2015 at 5:30 AM while residing in the Gardenside Nursing Home.

Dixie was born to Clara Edith and Robert Dorr Melvin of Fairbury, Nebraska on July 3, 1934. She resided in Fairbury throughout her early years of life, and graduated from Fairbury High School in 1952. During the early years, Dixie worked at various jobs including Smitty’s Bakery, Hesteds and the Lincoln Telephone Company. On February 25, 1954, Dixie became the bride of Richard McDaniel and proceeded to have two children, Richard Eric and Mary Christine. The family continued to reside in Fairbury until tragedy struck when Richard McDaniel suddenly passed away on January 6, 1961. Dixie continued to work and care for her young children as a single mother until she met Tech Sgt. Willard Zane Taylor through her brother and sister in law, Emerson and Winnie Melvin. Dixie and Willard both hit it off immediately and were married on August 9, 1964 in the Baptist Church of Fairbury, NE. TSGT Taylor was stationed in Sumter South Carolina, so, Dixie and the family began their new life as a military family. A blessing came to Willard and Dixie on January 12, 1966 as Matthew Craig Taylor was born into the family. Dixie and her family resided in South Carolina, North Dakota, and California before returning to her home town to live out the remainder of her life. After returning to Fairbury, Dixie was employed by the Fairbury School System and prepared meals for the youth of Fairbury for over 19 years. She began at Central Elementary School and ended her career at the Fairbury High School. Dixie truly enjoyed her years spent in the school system and getting to know the youth of Fairbury. Dixie was fondly known as grandma to many of the students.

Dixie loved her family more than anything and they were always the most important part of her life. This is evidenced by her stepping in and providing a loving home and support to her grandchildren when needed. She knew no stranger and would open her house and heart to all who needed. She truly loved music and had a special talent when it came to playing the piano. She shared her love of music by teaching music to children in Sunday school and singing/playing with her family. There was no better wife, mom, grandmother or great grandmother in the world. She loved unconditionally and served as a protector, teacher, mentor, confidant, supporter and friend to many. She will be greatly missed by her family and countless others. Although she is not physically present, she is always with us in our hearts and as an angel looking over us. Rest in Peace and know we all miss and love you more than words could ever describe!

Dixie was preceded in death by her parent’s Clara Edith and Robert Dorr, brother’s Emerson, Dorr Jr., Max, Vernon and Lyle, as well as her oldest son Richard Eric Taylor.

Funeral Services were held Monday, July 13, 2015, 10:30 AM at the Fairbury Baptist Church with Sharon Schuster officiating. Memorials go to the Family's Choice. Burial was in the Fairbury Cemetery. Gerdes-Meyer Funeral Home in Fairbury was in charge of arrangements.