Mary Clayton Dixon died peacefully on May 7, 2025 at her home of 57 years in Eufaula, Alabama at the age of 90.
Mary was born in Clayton, Alabama, on December 3, 1934, to Jewel Gladys and Preston Copeland Clayton. She was a graduate of Clayton High School and studied at St. Mary’s College in Raleigh, NC, before transferring to the University of Alabama, where she joined Kappa Delta Sorority.
After completing the Fall semester of her junior year at the University, she married Robert Mack Dixon, on January 28, 1955, at St. Thaddeus Episcopal Church in Aiken, SC, before his deployment to Frankfurt, Germany. Mary and Bobby spent the first two years of their long and happy marriage in Frankfurt during the U.S. Army occupation of Germany.
Mary lived life to the fullest. She was a deeply devoted wife and mother of five and loved participating in boating, water sports, and school activities with her large family. After her youngest child left for college, Mary completed her bachelor’s degree at Troy State University and earned a master’s degree in French at Auburn University.
Mary was an energetic community booster and volunteer. At a young age, her aunt Mary Clayton inspired in her a love of gardening. A Master Gardener, she was a founding member of Eufaula Pride, dedicated to city beautification. As a lifelong and fifth generation member of St. James Episcopal Church, Mary sang in the choir and was an active volunteer. She will be remembered as a gracious hostess, avid traveler, and enthusiastic Alabama Crimson Tide fan.
Mary is survived by her five children, Clay Dixon Fenichel (Eric), Janie Dixon King (Danny), Robert Mack Dixon Jr. (Cally), Preston Copeland Dixon (Lori) and James Franklin Dixon III; grandchildren, Caroline Gayle (Michael), William King, Mack Dixon, Hamilton Dixon, Copeland Dixon, Fontaine Dixon, Mary Clayton Dixon, James Dixon IV, and David Dixon; great grandchildren, Michael Gayle Jr. and Mary Isabel Gayle; and brother, Preston Copeland Clayton Jr.
Visitation with the family was held on Monday, May 12, 11:00–1:00 in the parish hall of St. James Episcopal Church. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. James Episcopal Church, 100 St. James Place, Eufaula, AL 36027 or Eufaula Pride, 105 Ridge Avenue, Eufaula, AL 36027. Chapman Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.
