Dixie Lynn Thomas

Dixie L. Thomas, age 71, of Huntsville, MO, passed away at her home among loved ones on February 13, 2023. Dixie was born on November 16, 1951, in Ottumwa, IA, to Louis and Marilynne Eckelmann.

Dixie graduated from Van Buren High School, and attended Southeast Missouri State University in Cape Girardeau, MO. She was a member of the Methodist Church in Van Buren and enjoyed her time as a child growing up on the Current River. She moved to Moberly and married Frank Thomas on September 25, 1973, in Darksville, MO and they built a life together for over 49 years.

Dixie was an animal lover, a fantastic homemaker and the best mother and grandmother anyone could ask for. She enjoyed time spent with her family, her animals and being in nature. She spent many hours watching the birds and squirrels that she fed at her home. She loved cats and many of them had the pleasure of her care throughout the years.

Her family and friends will always remember her for her kindness and her love for her grandchildren. She was an amazing cook, and her family enjoyed many dinners around her table.

Dixie is preceded in death by her parents, her brother, David Eckelmann and his wife, Denise, and her favorite cat, Charlie.

Dixie is survived by her husband, Frank, of Huntsville, MO; daughter, Dana (Eric) Ross, Moberly, MO; granddaughter, Laine Ross and grandson, Carter Ross, Moberly, MO; brothers, Chuck (Carrie) Eckelmann, Moberly, MO, Gary (Jan) Eckelmann, Mountain Home, AR; mother-in-law, Dorothy Thomas, Hunstville, MO; many cousins, nieces, nephews and extended family and friends.

A private memorial service for the family will be held to celebrate Dixie’s life.

If desired, donations can be sent to the Central Missouri Humane Society at 616 Big Bear Blvd. Columbia, MO, 65202 in Dixie’s memory.

Arrangements are under the direction of PATHWAY-MILLARD Funeral Directors, 411 Union Avenue, Moberly, Missouri 65270 (660) 263-7284. Condolences may be left online for the family at www.pathwaymemorial.com.