Dixie Ward

(From Hedge-Lewis-Goodwin Funeral Home)

Dixie Ann Vailes Ward, born on November 23, 1937, in Webb City, Missouri, passed away on June 14, 2026, in Carthage, Missouri, following an extended illness.

Dixie was a loving, thoughtful, and selfless woman whose life was marked by devotion to her family, her faith, and the many people she cared for throughout the years. She attended Webb City Schools and carried the values of her hometown with her throughout her life. Her gentle spirit and steady presence touched the lives of all who knew her, and she will be remembered for the kindness and compassion she shared so freely. For more than 40 years, Dixie served as a Nurse Aide, dedicating her working life to the care and comfort of others. Her long career reflected the same nurturing heart that defined her life outside of work.

Dixie was a long-time member of Central Christian Center in Joplin. Her faith was an important part of who she was, and it guided her through life with strength and grace. She found comfort and fellowship in her church family and lived her beliefs through the way she treated others.

Dixie was preceded in death by her husbands, LeRoy Vailes and Robert Ward; her parents, Phillip and Lorene (Reitz) Ayers; her brothers, Eugene and James Rose and Marvin Ayers and sisters, Reba Bull and Mildred Coleman.

She is survived by her sons, Jerry Reitz of Webb City, and Terry Reitz of Joplin; her daughters, Margaret Vailes of Webb City, Debbie Vincent of Joplin, and Connie Von Brookner and her husband James of Baxter Springs, Kansas; her sister, Eldeana Riley of Webb City; 11 grandchildren; and numerous great-grandchildren. She also leaves behind many extended family members and friends who will cherish her memory and the love she gave so generously.

Graveside services are planned for Thursday, June 18, 2026 at 11:30 a.m. at the Carterville Cemetery in Carterville, Missouri. Family will receive friends in the Hedge-Lewis Goodwin Chapel from 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. prior to the service.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Hedge-Lewis Goodwin Funeral Home in Webb City, Missouri.