Emory D. Dixon, Jr.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Emory D. Dixon Jr., a beloved husband, loving father, and proud “Grandy” who passed away peacefully into the Gates of Heaven at home surrounded by his  family on June 16th, at the age of 88.

Born on July 24, 1936 in Baxley, Georgia, Emory “Skeet” lived a life marked by service, warmth, and an unwavering love for others. A proud Navy veteran, he served his country in both active duty and the Navy Reserve for 26 years before he was honorably discharged with a final rank of Master Chief Petty Officer. He carried that deep sense of duty and patriotism with him throughout his life. He loved sharing stories from his time in the service, which included service in the South China Sea during the Korean War, often punctuated by his favorite war movies that played on repeat in the living room of their Lake Oconee home. He always had a newspaper or well-worn book close by.

With Emory, he never met a stranger. No matter where he was, he could sit down next to anyone and by the end of the conversation, not only know their entire family history, but also manage to connect it to his own. And if he ever knew something before you did—which he usually did—you could count on him saying, “I read it in the paper.” His uncanny memory and sincere interest in others made him a remarkable storyteller and an even better salesman. As a successful Sales Director for Beckman Instruments, he didn’t just sell things, he built relationships. People trusted him with their business because they knew his heart.

Above all, Emory was a family man and a faithful follower of Christ. He was the steady, loving presence in every season of life—offering support, wisdom, laughter, and unconditional love. Whether it was weekends at Lake Oconee with a full house, or long phone calls, he made every moment count. 

Saturdays in the fall were sacred because that meant Georgia football. He was almost never without a Georgia shirt or hat on. He wore his red and black with pride, as he cheered on his beloved Bulldogs.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 63 years, Beth Dixon, his siblings Denean Dixon and wife Linda, Donald Dixon, and Dale Sellers, his children Emory Dixon III and wife Ruth, Scott Dixon and wife Vickie, and Alex Dixon and wife Julie, his grandchildren Taylor and Michael May, Ashley and Nash Cullens, Aaron and Sarah Dixon, Matthew Dixon, Paige and Ethan James, Abby and Caleb Winton, Ben Dixon and fiancé Annyln Royal, Gavin Dixon, and Owen Dixon, and great-grandchildren Anniston & Olivia May, Chapel & Bonnie Winton, and James & Graham Dixon, and a wide circle of extended family and friends who will forever cherish his memory.

He is preceded in death by his parents Emory Sr. and Myrtle Dixon, his sister DeAnna Morris, and his son George Kelly Dixon.

He was a member of Lake Oconee Presbyterian Church and attended as long as his health allowed. Skeet lived a life of purpose, guided by God’s love, and left the world better than he found it. His laughter, wisdom, and faith will echo in our hearts forever until we meet again in God’s eternal kingdom.

A celebration of his life will be held on Saturday, June 21st at Lake Oconee Presbyterian Church at 3:00 pm, with Pastor Mike Palombo. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in his honor to Lake Oconee Presbyterian Church.  McCommons Funeral Home, located at 109 W. Broad St., Greensboro, GA (706) 453-2626, is handling arrangements. Please visit www.mccommonsfuneralhome.com to sign the online guest register.

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