Dixie Rose Hayes

MUNCIE- Dixie Rose (Lee) Hayes, born June 4, 1939, in Wabash, Indiana, passed from earthly life in Muncie, following an extended illness.

She was 86 years old. A devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend. Dixie lived a life rooted in faith, family, and service to others.

Dixie was the daughter of Earl L. Lee and Catherine J. Lee. She graduated from Wabash High School in 1957 and later pursued further education at Ball State University in Muncie-an accomplishment she took great pride in.

On July 13, 1957, Dixie married James R. Hayes. Their union was blessed with four children, Dawn Larsen, James R. Hayes (Lisa), Randal L. Hayes (Cherie), and Deborah Hayes Carr, who preceded her in death on January 8, 2026. Dixie's beloved husband passed away on September 5, 1970.

Affectionately known as "Gma Dixie", she was cherished by her grandchildren, the "originals", Michael, Maggie, Jennifer, Allie (Christopher), Christopher (Victoria), Quinten, Isabella (Gage), and Maxwell (Marilyn).

As "Gigi", she delighted in the lives of her great grandchildren, the "greats", Adrian and Mya, Wyatt, Braxton and Layla, Hunter, Jasmin, and Ava, Cora Kelly and Carson, Eden and Aspyn.

Family was the center of Dixie's world. She never missed an opportunity to support her children's countless activities and milestones-always putting their needs before her own. Her unwavering dedication continued into the next generations as she proudly attended events for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Dixie faced challenges with grace and strength-including her experience with breast cancer in 2009-2010-drawing deeply from her enduring faith. She instilled those same values in her children and grandchildren, leaving behind a legacy of love, resilience, and spiritual devotion.

A gifted seamstress, Dixie lovingly crafted clothing for her children-often alongside her dear friend Patricia Knight, who predeceased her.

Dixie's life was deeply enriched by her faith. She was a member of Olive Chapel Church, and later Gethsemane United Methodist Church. She played piano and organ, along with singing special music selections while at Olive Chapel.

Professionally, Dixie worked for many years as a legal secretary in the Muncie area. She retired in 2014 from Dennis, Wenger and Abrell, after a long and dedicated career marked by diligence and integrity.

Dixie was preceded in death by her parents; daughter, Deborah Carr; siblings, Larry and Sharon, along with their spouses; grandmother Gladys-whose influence shaped much of Dixie's life; her in-laws; numerous cousins; nieces; nephews; and many lifelong friends.

Dixie will be remembered for the warmth she brought into every room through her music, kindness, and steadfast love for her family, along with her amazement of God's love and grace.

May her memory bring comfort to all who knew and loved her.

Friends and family may call at The Meeks Mortuary and Crematory, Washington Street Chapel, from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm on Thursday, February 19, 2026.

Graveside Services will be held at 1:00 pm on Monday, February 23, 2026 at Falls Cemetery in Wabash, Indiana.

Online condolences may be directed to the family at www.meeksmortuary.com.