Maurice Vern Dixon left his earthly home on January 6, 2016 in the peaceful presence of his adoring family and a multitude of angels. Born on June 27, 1932 in Ft. Dodge, Iowa to Paul Leonard and Verna Pauline Dixon, Maurice was lovingly known as ‘Poppy’ - the chosen name of his most valued role as Grandfather to eight. Poppy was known for his loving-kindness to family, friends and every person he met. He always had a smile and warmth that transcended circumstance. Poppy is survived by his beautiful and loving bride of 61 years, Phyllis June Lofstead Dixon, also known lovingly as ‘Mor Mor’, her favored role as Grandmother.
Poppy is survived by his three children, Terrye Lee Tyer, and her husband, Ken Tyer with two of Poppy's granchildren, Kennedy and Kaylee June, engaged to be wed to Zachary Springer of Houston; Judy Kay Thomas, and husband, Jon Thomas with three children, Seagren Elizabeth Doran, Haley Abigail Doran, and Charles Cole Thomas; and Douglas Alan Dixon, who is married to Linda Bridges Dixon with the remaining three grandchildren, Delaney Leigh, Paul Forrest and Troy Alan Dixon.
In addition to being the most wonderful husband, grandfather and father, Poppy served in the Air Force, including overseas tours during the Korean War. He was a dedicated Staff Sergeant and received numerous acknowledgements for his service including commendation for meritorious service in assisting a crew safely land after losing their navigational equipment.
After his Honorable discharge from the Air Force, Maurice also served his country and family through retirement from the Federal Aviation Administration for 22 years, including years after the notorious Air Traffic Controller strike of 1981, where he continued his dedication to his job by refusing to go along with the strike. Poppy then served as a meteorologist for the FAA and retired from while serving as an Air Traffic Controller for the Texarkana Regional Tower.
Poppy was also known for his spirit of serving others in love and kindness. Poppy (and Mor Mor) attended First Christian Church in McKinney as well as faithful service and attendance at Central Christian Church in Texarkana during their years there.
Poppy will be sorely missed, and his legacy of love will go on through his family and many friends who loved him.
Visitation will be at Turrentine-Jackson-Morrow Funeral Home at 2525 Central Expressway North in Allen, Texas on Saturday, January 9th from 7-9 PM. Memorial Services will be held Sunday, January 10, at 2:30PM at First Christian Church of McKinney at 1800 W. Hunt Street, McKinney, Texas, 75069. A graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, January 15, 2016 at DFW National Cemetery in Dallas, Texas.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to First Christian Church of McKinney.