Dixie Lee Willis

Dixie Lee Willis, a beacon of love and faith, passed away peacefully on March 26, 2024, in Plant City, Florida. Born on July 29, 1936, in Johnson City, New York, Dixie's life was a testament to the power of gentle kindness and unwavering devotion to her family and her faith. Dixie was the cherished daughter of the late William Purple and Leona Burlington. She was the beloved wife of Donald Ralph Willis, who preceded her in death. Together, they built a life filled with love and laughter, a legacy that continues through their sons, Michael, Mark (and his wife Nancy), and Matthew Willis. Dixie's spirit will forever be reflected in the joy of her grandchildren, Johnatan (and his wife Lorena) Willis, Rachel (and her husband Andy) Wingate, and her treasured great-grandchildren, Lydia Mae, Priscilla Jo Wingate, and Joanna Iris Willis and Leona Violet Willis. A lifelong member of both Thomas Road Baptist Church and Shiloh Baptist, Dixie's faith was the cornerstone of her existence. Her melodious voice was a staple in the church choir, where she praised through song and uplifted the hearts of all who heard her. Dixie's love for reading was known to all who knew her, as she often could be found with a book in hand, sharing the stories and wisdom she gleaned with her family and friends. Dixie was the embodiment of a loving, faith-filled, and gentle soul. Her presence was a comforting embrace to those in need, and her unwavering support was the foundation upon which her family thrived. She was a devoted wife and mother, always placing the needs of her loved ones above her own, guiding them with a quiet strength and a smile that could light up a room. In the words of Helen Keller, "What we have once enjoyed deeply we can never lose. All that we love deeply becomes a part of us." Dixie's love and influence have indeed become an integral part of those who were blessed to know her. Her legacy of kindness, compassion, and faith will continue to live on in the hearts and actions of her family. As we bid farewell to Dixie Lee Willis, we celebrate the remarkable woman she was and the extraordinary life she led. Her journey on earth may have concluded, but her spirit remains an indelible mark on the lives she touched. We take solace in knowing that she is now singing with the angels, her voice a heavenly melody that echoes the love she shared so freely. Dixie's life was a beautiful reflection of her heart: full of grace, warmth, and an unwavering commitment to her faith and family. She will be profoundly missed, but the memories she created will be cherished forever. Rest in peace, dear Dixie, until we meet again.
Friends and family will be received Friday, March 29, 2024 from 2:30 PM to 3:30 PM at Haught Funeral Home, 708 W. Dr. MLK Jr. Blvd Plant City, FL 33563.
A funeral service will follow.
If you would rather contribute to a good cause than ordering flowers, but please feel whatever is in you heart, the family ask please donate to Dixie's charities that she held dear to her heart, Liberty godparent home in Lynchburg, Virginia or Parkinson Foundation.
https://godparent.org/contact/
https://www.parkinson.org/

Online condolences can be made at www.haught.care.
Funeral arrangements were trusted to Haught Funeral Home, 708 W. Dr. MLK Jr. Blvd Plant City, FL 33563, (813) 717-9300

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