Isabelle “Dixie” Mason Ryckman Walker, a woman of extraordinary depth and warmth, passed away February 26th, 2023 peacefully in her sleep on a beautiful sunny Sunday afternoon.
Born in Ventura, California on March 28th, 1940, Dixie lived a life full of color, love, and kindness.
Dixie was a nurse, photographer, gardener, pianist, and most importantly, an extraordinary mother. She lived her life in full color, with yellow being her favorite, especially if it sparkled. Her bright personality shone through in the vibrant flowers she grew in her yard and the kindness she planted everywhere she went. Dixie’s passion was making sure people knew someone was thinking of them. She sent hundreds of cards to those in need of love, prayers, or just a friendly reminder that they were not alone. Her heart was filled with an incredible amount of love for her family, friends, God, all animals and her two cats, Jingle and Belle. As an emergency room nurse, Dixie spent her life helping others, from assisting with stitching up children who had fallen off their bikes (including her own daughter, Dakota) to holding the hand of a dying cancer patient. Her passion for helping people was evident in everything she did. Dixie’s photography was her artistic expression, capturing images of things unnoticed by passersby, bringing God’s beauty to the page for all to see and experience. She saw God in everything, especially the flowers, and through her lens, helped others see the beauty in the world. Despite her closet full of bright colors, sequins, and bedazzled tennis shoes, Dixie was a humble woman who didn’t want a lot of fanfare when she left this earthly body. But her imprint on this world was significant, and anyone who met her was touched by her infectious spirit. She had a heart that went into everything she did and was always ready to be of service to those around her.
In heaven, Dixie’s spirit is alive and well, surrounded by the beauty of the afterlife. We can imagine her playing “Great Balls of Fire” at a grand piano, wearing her pink sparkly shoes or yellow coat and red mittens. She may have even looked for Elvis first, but we know that every rainbow, flower, butterfly, or bird we see on this earth will remind us of her. Dixie’s family takes comfort in knowing that she is at peace and surrounded by the beauty of Heaven. They will always remember her for the flowers she planted, the birds she fed, and the love she extended. While her passing has left a void in their lives, her memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved her.
At the gates of Heaven, Dixie was welcomed by her late husband of 64 years, Gene Walker, her mother, Isabelle K. Ryckman, and her father, Lloyd Mason Ryckman.
She is survived by her three children and their families: Kym (daughter) and Dana Ritter; Kevin (son) and Cyndi Walker, Dakota (daughter) and Wendy Walker. Her beautiful grandchildren, Lee, Lauryn, Luna, Ash, Heidi, and Sam, will always cherish their memories with their Nana. She was also blessed to have been loved by her great-grandchildren, Jaxon, Kenzi, and Charlotte, who will grow up inspired by the kindness and love she showed to all.
In honor of Dixie’s legacy, consider a donation in her name to planting trees in her beloved state of California. Dixie loved nature and California, and this is a fitting way to celebrate her life. Donations can be made at: https://onetreeplanted.org/collections/all/products/california
Dixie leaves a legacy of love and inspiration that will be remembered for generations to come. Her passing has left a profound and indelible mark on those who loved her, but they take comfort in knowing that she is now at peace, surrounded by the beauty of Heaven. Dixie’s life was a reminder that we should always strive to make the world a better place, and to not let the beauty around us go unnoticed, even if we must search for it. As we say goodbye to Dixie, we remember the words of poet Maya Angelou: “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” Dixie made everyone she met feel loved, and that is a legacy that will never be forgotten.
In honor of Dixie, let us all try to follow in her footsteps and spread love and kindness wherever we go. Let us continue to plant seeds of compassion and nurture them with the same care that Dixie gave to her beautiful gardens. Rest in peace, Mom – Nana. May your spirit continue to shine brightly, and may your love and kindness continue to inspire us all. We’ll be smelling the roses you have planted for years to come.
A memorial service will be held at Community United Methodist Church at 120 N. Pickaway St. Circleville, OH on March 08th, 2023 at 10 am (visitation) and 11 am (ceremony).