- Born on: July 16, 1953
- Departed on: January 11, 2023
- Resided in: Grundy Center, IA
Dixie D. Phillips
Dixie Phillips, of Grundy Center, passed away on Wednesday, January 11, 2023, surrounded by family, friends and her fellow nurses.
Dixie Diane was born July 16, 1953 to Duncan and Dorothy McMartin. She grew up in rural Grundy Center, graduating from GCHS in 1971. Dixie attended Marshalltown Community College and began her career as a nurse at the UI Hospitals and Clinics.
Dixie’s career spanned 45+ years, in large part at Sartori Memorial Hospital in Cedar Falls. She was dedicated to her profession, always striving to provide the best care possible to her patients and the best assistance and companionship to her colleagues and dear friends in and out of the hospital. She used her unique wit and sense of humor to get everyone through long shifts and difficult situations. In 2016, Dixie was recognized by the American Association of Critical Care Nurses for maintaining her certification as a CCRN for over thirty years, something she was very proud of.
After retiring from nursing in 2018, Dixie worked part-time at 319 Decor + Design. She loved having fun with the girls and the more reasonable hours.
Outside of nursing, Dixie’s interests ran the gamut. She served on the Kling Memorial Library Board of Trustees and was a resolute supporter of community and education services. She loved reading, animals, history, science, religion, public television, voting, nature, crocheting, her collections, adventures with friends, attending church and bible study, trips to visit Sasha and Clint and spending time with her friends and family. She was a dedicated daughter, sister, aunt, mother, grandmother, friend, caregiver, student, mentor, colleague and more.
Dixie is survived by her brother DeeGene (Linda) McMartin, sister-in-law Kathy McMartin, children Sasha and Jordan and their spouses, two grandchildren, three generations of beloved nieces and nephews and Violet (the cat). She is preceded in death by her parents, her brother Darell, and her nephew Clinton.
Per Dixie’s request, there will be no formal service. Condolences for Dixie’s family can be sent to the Grundy Center United Methodist Church (707 6th St.) or online with Iowa Cremation at iowacremation.com. Memorials can be directed to two of Dixie’s favorite places, the Kling Memorial Library in Grundy Center and the Blank Park Zoo in Des Moines. Think of her the next time you check out a book or visit the zoo, she would love that.
