Dixie Wright

(From Parker Mortuary)

Dixie Darlene Wright, a spirited soul who embraced life with a comedic flair and a heart as vast as the Missouri skies, left us on November 8, 2025, after an extended illness. Born on May 18, 1937, in the small town of Bethune, Colorado, to the late Earl and Dorothy (Fields) Mills. Dixie was a force to be reckoned with from the very start. Her laughter was infectious, her wit sharper than a syringe, and her love for life as nourishing as the care she provided in her many years as a devoted nurse.

Dixie, known to light up every room with her humor, embarked on her journey of healing and helping as a graduate from the nursing school in Winterset, Iowa. Her career was as illustrious as her personality, touching lives as a Registered Nurse, then as the Assistant Director of Nursing for Freeman Hospital, and later at the Chapman Cancer Center in Joplin, Missouri. She eventually hung up her scrubs with a grand exit into retirement from Home Health Care, leaving behind a legacy of laughter and exceptional care.

Her love for stirring the pot was only matched by the love she had for her family. Dixie leaves behind her daughter, Linda Wilson and her husband, Steve, of Joplin, MO. She was the anchor for her grandsons, Jacob Wilson (and his wife, Meggan) and Wyatt Ferguson, who will miss her adventurous spirit dearly. 

She is preceded in passing by her daughter, Tammy Ferguson, who is undoubtedly sharing a hearty chuckle with her mom at this very moment. Dixie's brother, Mick Mills, and his wife, Norma, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members, will remember her fondly for her selfless nature and her ability to turn any frown upside down.

A faithful Christian, Dixie was a long-time member of the Christ Community Christian Church of Joplin. Her faith was as important to her as her sense of humor, and she believed in spreading both with equal fervor.

Dixie was additionally preceded in death by her brothers, Jack, Jim and Tommy, as well as an infant sister, Melanie.

No services are planned at this time.

Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Parker Mortuary, Joplin, Missouri.