Dixie Vacca

(From Ulmer Funeral Home)

Dixie Jean Vacca, 77, of Carthage, Missouri, passed away peacefully on Monday, November 10, 2025, at home surrounded by her family. Born on November 23, 1947, in Carthage to T.J. and Wilma “Lucille” (Legore) Anderson, Dixie graduated from Carthage High School with the Class of 1965. She was the owner and operator of Rural Refuse Service. 

After selling the business she went to work for Steadley which was later acquired by Leggett & Platt. She worked there until her retirement in 2020. Dixie was a devoted member of Bethel United Methodist Church for four years. She passionately supported her community, serving on the board of the Powers Museum, volunteering with Compassionate Friends, and championing causes such as the Carthage Humane Society and Carthage Schools. Dixie had a generous heart and was always eager to help others. She was also known for her spirited presence online as a true “keyboard warrior” on Facebook. 

On May 22, 1969, Dixie married the love of her life, Richard Vacca, in Miami, Oklahoma. They shared many wonderful years together until his passing on November 12, 2015. 

Dixie is survived by her son, Wesley Vacca (Sheena) of Carthage; three daughters, Kamie Bourgault (John) of Carthage, Kim Snyder (Rusty) of Carthage, and Kelli Powelson (Mike) of Edmond, Oklahoma; eleven grandchildren, Dillon and Riley Powelson, Kally (Zach) Hatcher, Taylor Snyder, Jacob Snyder (Ashley), Olivia, Ava, and Kane Bourgault, and Trenton, Troyer, and Trayven Vacca; and six great-grandchildren, Rory, Simon, Owen Hatcher, and Margo, Scout, and Poppy Snyder. She is also survived by her brother, Thomas “Tom” J. Anderson of Carthage; sister, Sue Barton (Butch) of Carthage; brother-in-law, Kevin McKelvy of Carthage; brother-in-law Joe (Kay) Vacca of Coffeyville KS; many beloved nieces and nephews. 

She was preceded in death by her husband, Richard; two sons, Todd Vacca (January 9, 1986) and Chad Vacca (November 5, 1971); her parents, T.J. and Lucille Anderson; and her sister, Sheryl McKelvy. 

A funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at Ulmer Funeral Home. Visitation will take place from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, November 14, 2025, also at Ulmer Funeral Home. The burial will take place at Park Cemetery in Carthage, Missouri, immediately following the service. 

Contributions may be made to the Carthage R-9 Performing Arts Center, in care of Ulmer Funeral Home. 

Online condolences may be shared at www.ulmerfh.com. 

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Ulmer Funeral Home.