Dixie Marlene Pichitino

POLAND — Dixie M. Pichitino, 77, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, with her family by her side.

Dixie was born April 13, 1948, in Kalamazoo, Michigan, the daughter of Richard H. Leach and Arlene Stoddard Leach. They moved to Struthers in 1950. It was there that she met the love of her life, John Pichitino “Pitch.” They started dating when she was 14 and he was 16. They got married June 10, 1967. Their love for each other was a beautiful example to all who knew them. 

Dixie had an amazing work ethic and held many jobs throughout her life, but her greatest passion was her family and friends. Everyone who met her instantly loved her. She had a beautiful heart and enjoyed nothing more than taking care of everyone she loved. 

Among her many talents were baking and cooking for her loved ones. Her chocolate chip cookies were a favorite. She also had a passion for decorating and found joy in shopping at TJ Maxx and Marshalls. Every inch of her home was beautifully decorated and warm and welcoming to anyone who entered there. 

Dixie leaves to cherish her memory, her husband, John Pichitino; daughter, Tami (Art) Volpini of Poland; son, Jay (Sarah) Pichitino of Grove City; and four grandchildren, Artie, Ellianna and Dominic Volpini, and Leora Pichitino, all of whom she adored. She also leaves behind her beloved cats, Kai and Colby, as well as her extended family and friends, who were all family to her. 

In addition to her parents, Dixie was preceded in death by her brother, Rick Leach, and her infant daughter, Stacey Pichitino.

Calling hours will be 4 to 7 p.m. Sunday, March 29, 2026, and 10 to 10:30 a.m. Monday, March 30, 2026, at Higgins-Reardon Funeral Homes, Poland Chapel.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 11 a.m. Monday at Holy Family Church. 

Interment will be in Poland Riverside Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations in Dixie’s name may be made to Hospice of the Valley or Dylan’s House.

Dixie’s family wants to express their sincere gratitude to the various doctors and medical staff who supported her throughout her journey, as well as to the Austintown Health Care Center. Never forget the difference you make!

In lieu of flowers, donations in Dixie's memory may be made to Hospice of the Valley. 

Condolences may be sent to Dixie’s family by visiting www.higgins-reardon.com.