Dixie Ryan

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

A loving wife, beautiful Mama, and precious Mamaw, Dixie Joan Ryan (Wolfe), age 90, of Carterville, Missouri, passed into the Eternal Presence of her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on May 22, 2026.

Dixie was born in Joplin on September 5, 1935, to Juanita Wolfe, and spent her entire life in the Joplin area. She worked early in her life for American Fixture as the first female welder in Joplin. She married William D Ryan in November of 1977. Dixie later worked in sales for Belk Simpson in Carthage. She was adored by everyone who knew her.

Dixie enjoyed sewing, reading, traveling, and singing, and was known for her beautiful voice. Above all, she treasured time spent with her family, children and grandchildren.

Dixie was preceded in death by her mother, Juanita Wolfe; her sister, Sharon Winters; her only son, Doug Cramer, and her grandson, David Box III.

She is survived by her husband, William D. Ryan of Carterville, MO; daughters, Debora Palmer and husband Tim of Joplin, Cristy Snow and husband Bill of Brownsville, TX, Carrie Box and husband David of Joplin, Lori McGraw and husband Steve of Torrington, WY, and Becky Begay and husband Wallace of Mesa, AZ; her sister, Lou Ann Bryant and husband Larry of Carl Junction; 27 grandchildren and 42 great-grandchildren.

The family will receive friends and visitors from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at Mason-Woodard Chapel in Joplin and a graveside service will be held for the family at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 28th at Carterville Cemetery.

One of her youngest great-grandsons who knew her well said, “Mamaw’s crown in heaven is probably so heavy, she’s going to fall right back down to earth again.”