Dr. Richard Hampton Dixon

1935 - 2001

Dr. Richard Hampton Dixon

1935 - 2001

BORN

1935

DIED

2001

Richard Dixon Obituary

Published by Griffin Leggett Healey & Roth Funeral Home on Jun. 26, 2001.
Dr. Richard Hampton Dixon, 65, of Little Rock, Arkansas, and Naples, Florida, a U.S. Navy veteran who served from 1961-64, who practiced dentistry for 40 years in Little Rock, died peacefully at his home in Florida on Monday, June 25, 2001, following a long, courageous battle with cancer. Visitation is scheduled for Thursday, June 28, 2001, 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m., at Griffin Leggett Healey & Roth, 5800 West 12th Street, Little Rock. Memorial services are scheduled for Friday, June 29, 3 p.m., at the funeral home. Burial will be at Roselawn Cemetery. Memorial donations are appreciated to Hospice of Naples, Inc., 1095 Whippoorwill Lane, Naples, FL 34105. Arrangements entrusted to Griffin Leggett Healey & Roth, Little Rock, Arkansas.

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October 5, 2025

Richard Dixon posted to the memorial.

January 27, 2025

Debbie Hays posted to the memorial.

June 20, 2023

Richard Dixon posted to the memorial.

Richard Dixon

October 5, 2025

The family has expanded.

Debbie Hays

January 27, 2025

My Dad, would be glad to know that I used my library degree many years after I received it. His granddaughter Heather Scott is an executive with Cadence Bank in Texas. His grandson, Heath Hays has 3 grandchildren, Maddy, Blaine , and Blake Hays

Richard Dixon

June 20, 2023

Jerry Guswelle who spoke at my father's funeral and hosted the family at his house after the funeral has passed away.
He told a funny story about he and Dad going duck hunting and getting Grandmother Dixons car stuck on a levy down by the river.
He told how they went to a car wash and had to clean out all the mud off before racing home before his mother so they didn't get caught. It was a humorous story that was very helpful during our time of grief.

His Great grandchildren

Richard Dixon

June 24, 2022

You have more grandchildren. The continuing cycle of life.

Richard Dixon

November 21, 2015

You will always live in my hearts and prayers.

April 19, 2013

Retireing on May 1,2013. You were the inspiration. Life is too short.

Richard Dixon

December 17, 2012

Moving to Hawaii. Karma, or just you telling me to go there.

Richards Grandson

Richard Dixon

May 3, 2012

Ryan graduates from Collage on the 10th of this month. He is looking at OCS. I wish you were here to advise him.

Richard Dixon

July 12, 2010

This is just a note to say, I love my son.

Richard Dixon

August 28, 2008

I miss you and Mom.... So, I had to undergo anterior cervical fusion surgery on 7/17/08. Eight weeks off work. I have discovered I am not ready to retire...... I don't think I will ever truly retire. Some kind of service work for the church I suppose. Ryan is trying to get on a student program with the DEA. Accounting I beleive. You would be proud of him, I know I am. You are still in my prayers, Love, Richard

Richard Dixon

November 15, 2006

My how a year flies by as you get older. So, Jerry Guswelle is a member of my church. And I got to hear a story of my Dads youth. It goes like this, he and Jerry skipped school to go duck hunting. They got Elizabeths new car stuck in mud. When they got it home they couldn't get all the mud out of the car. Funny thing how life repeats itself. I did the same thing in High School. Only I called my Dad and told him about it to avoid a wupin.

Richard Dixon

August 28, 2005

I went to a Masonic funeral at Roselawn. I thought about your dad and the kind of funeral he had. then I remembered Mama saying she was there. You guys were high school sweethearts. Funny how some things come into your head. I met a dentist Named Murphy who said he knew you through Dr. Richardson. Maybe I should go see him.

Richard Dixon

January 10, 2005

Another Christmas without you. You will be glad to know I have become a Usher at my Church. Funny how some things repeat themselves. Business is going well. More riders than funerals. I did not kill a deer this year, even though I received several pounds free. Deer spagetti. You would like it. I will say a prayer for You and Mom. Richard Jr.

Richard Dixon

September 19, 2004

I have joined a Baptist Church. We sometimes come around full circle. The devil has'nt got me yet. Karen and I are very active in the church. I killed two dove during dove hunting. I am back for the first time since our last hunt. Maybe I'll even kill a deer this year. You know I always preferred does. I pray for you and Mamma. Love Rich.

Mimi Fleming

January 11, 2003

Dear Uncle Richard,

I was dusting my house today and ran across a gift you had given me on my Wedding day, thirteen years ago. I have just now been able to accept that you are now one of my angels. For those of you wondering the gift was a wooden apple. The gift was for me to remember a very special day that I had with him at Greers Ferry when I was six. I always call Richard my Uncle but, really Richard was another "Dad" to me!! I spent many weeks with him, Martha, and Richard Jr. when my parents would go out of town and many memories are there with them all.I could go on for days but, I don't think there is enough room. Richard Jr. Our "Dad" will always be with us in whatever we do, and just remember he loves us all very much and is with us everyday. The most wonderful part is when we get together that love is stronger than ever because I see Uncle Richard in you. His legacy does live on through you and his love for his Dentistry. Yes, Richard you are the apple of my eye!! I LOVE YOU and MISS YOU!

Richard Dixon

December 22, 2002

The last entry, reminded me of a trip hunting with My Dad, and Chick Luten. We were in a boat called smiley, because its front end looked like a smile. Chick and Dad got bored at one duck stand and decided we could jump a levy to another lake. So here is three men in boat with loaded shotguns and a 15 horse motor boat attempting to jump a 15 ft. levy. We almost made it. I went head first it the water with waders to big for me, now full of water. Mean while the other 007 agents were laughing and telling me to get back in the boat. We did get five ducks that day. Life with my Dad was never boring. I hope you are getting ducks Daddy.

Jerry Collar (now Kahler)

December 19, 2002

In our senior year in high school, Richard, Jerry Gusewell, and I skipped school one day to go duck hunting. We went up to Lake Nimrod, set out decoys on a peninsula and had an almost perfect hunt. We saw two ducks and Richard or Jerry killed one of them. I liked Richard a lot, and Martha.

Richard Dixon

November 1, 2002

Well, we have moved back to Little Rock. At least we are closer to work. Ryan is playing 1st string at football. Defencive End. He gets to tackle people. He is already as tall as me. Where is my bat? He is making Straight A's. Not at all like his Dad, thank God. Deer season is upon us. This is when I miss you the most. Love, Rich.

Richard Dixon

September 29, 2002

U.S. doctors said they have managed to grow living pig teeth in rats, a feat of biotechnology that experts said could spark a dental revolution.



Researchers at Boston's Forsyth Institute said their successful experiment suggests the existence of dental stem cells, which could one day allow a person to replace a lost tooth with an identical one grown from his or her own cells.



"The ability to identify, isolate and propagate dental stem cells to use in biological replacement tooth therapy has the potential to revolutionize dentistry," said Dominick DePaola, president and CEO of the institute that focuses on oral and facial science.



The researchers said they hope that within five years they will have developed techniques to grow teeth of a specific size and shape, and that within 10 years it will be possible to regenerate human teeth.

Now this is something that Dad could have really loved to know about.

Well Debbie & Tom Married off Heather to a really nice young man. He is in the Air Force however. We went to the service, and it was really nice. Mike & Syl were there also. We miss you Dad.

Richard Dixon

May 22, 2002

The flags at your gravesite are beginning to fade, but every day there are things I do and say that remind me of you. Mamorial Day is coming and I will renew the flags. Ryan is starting to drive, maybe I will have more patience with him, than you did with me, but not likley. I pray for you every day. Wish we could go fishing.

Richard Dixon

February 19, 2002

I am slowly moving forward. It is times like this that I miss you most. I finally made Engineer. Ryan is doing great in school. I just wish I had some of your stuff to give him. Stories will have to do I guess. We all miss you. Makayla asked where you were yesterday. I said, in Heaven. I'm not the only one that visits your grave. Good to know others still care.

Richard Dixon Jr.

January 31, 2002

Christmas has come and gone. Your memory, it carries on. I think about your new wood turnning talent. Your time as a dentist was other prove of your art. There is a special place in my heart, Knowing you are in heaven with my mother and brother. I am Worshipful Master of my lodge this year. Many of the things I will write about in our trestleboard, will be influenced by my fathers teachings. You are in my thoughts often. I'll see you some day, Rich

Ryan Dixon

December 24, 2001

I am one of Dr. Dixon's grand-children. I want everyone in the world how much I loved my G-Daddy. I have plenty of wonder memories of him, and I am always hearing new ones. Someday I will tell my children and grand-children these same stories. Thanks for being the Best G-Daddy. I can't wait to join you in heaven. I would like to thank my father,Richard Jr.,for doing this for me.

Richard Dixon

November 27, 2001

Well, your Birthday came, and I went by the graveside. Now Thanksgiving without Parents or Grandparents. We had it at the Fire Station. Then on Friday Randall came over to the house for a nice meal, then we went out to a movie. I could really use some of your sage advice right now. I pray for you. Love Rich

christopher cortright

October 23, 2001

i was one of the first people to meet dr dixon when he came to interview for his position on kwajalein in the marshall islands in the mid 90's. i was snorkeling alone at the japanese pools oceanside near the "kwaj lodge" and he walked down to borrow my mask so that he could see the fascinating fish and fauna that i was observing 10 feet down. i rememeber being a bit trepidatious about being there and assumed that huge sharks stood by to gobble us up, but his easygoing, southern friendliness put me at ease and i enjoyed the remainder of the swim.

later, he was my dentist while i was on kwaj, and i was struck by his genuineness and kindness; i almost looked forward to visiting the dentist! also, he was careful to look for signs of cancer of the mouth which was going an extra step that no other dentists i have had did.

i was saddened to hear about his passing on when i saw a notice in the online edition of the "hourglass."

to all of those who knew him, we are better off because of super people like him.

best regards,

chris

Debbie Hays

October 14, 2001

To Those Who Knew My Father,



Thank you for your kind and loving comments. Today for some reason I needed to refer to this site to be reminded of the love shared among so many for Dr. Richard Dixon. P.S. To Richard Junior, I am truely glad you made it to 42.



Love, Debbie

Melville David

October 12, 2001

Mrs. Dixon,

It was sad to hear that Richard had passed away. His courage and good humor, despite the grim cicumstances he faced, will be remembered by me as a strong lesson in faith and the nobility of the human spirit... Peace be with you and your family...David Melville

Richard Dixon Jr.

September 5, 2001

Well, I had my first birthday without parents. I bet you can't beleive I made it to 42. Some times I wonder how I made it this far myself. Deer season just won't be the same this year without you. Maybe Ryan is ready to start hunting. I go by and visit your graveside regular. Still no footmarker. Ryan is playing football this year. He is so excited about it. I miss you, and time will heal the pain. Love, Richard

Nina Dixon

July 22, 2001

To all who have written or sent cards, I Thank you for the Love, prayers and kindness you have shown. We have lost the most amazing person I have ever known, his Love and kindness will live on forever. Richard had a long courageous battle with cancer, but was strong and ever going up to the very end. He loved life so much and wanted to experience it to the fullest. I am deeply touched by all the love everyone has shown the family and me. I am very thankful for all the wonderful years and memories we had together, while touching your lives along the way. May God Bless and Keep you.

Love to All,

Nina

Richard Dixon Jr.

July 20, 2001

To all who have Signed the guest book, I thank you from the bottom of my heart. The condolances sent and expressed by all have been wonderful in this time of sorrow. If you have any stories to tell feel free to write me an e-mail. The lessons my father taught me will carry me through, hopefully I can give some of them to his grandson. Please know we appriciate all the kind words. Thankyou. Richard H. Dixon Jr.

Lynda Funderburk

July 5, 2001

Nina,



The boys and I want you to know you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. Both you and Richard made going to the dentist a joy for my little ones, Charlie and Scott, and myself. As cheerful and fun as your husband was here on earth, we know he is at peace and enjoying heaven. His smile always brightened up a room, now he is shining in heaven. I pray his loving memories will comfort you as your days go by.



Lovingly, Lynda, Charlie and Scott

Jack Hamilton

July 1, 2001

Our condolences, Nina. We were on a vacation trip and regret not being able to be there for you for the visitation and the service. My friendship with Richard goes back to more than 60 years ago. I have wonderful memories of our great times together and am very saddened.

barbara stewart

June 30, 2001

Stuart, deepest sympathy on the loss of Richard. My parents, W.B. and Zylphia Eaker were close friends of your parents in Little Rock. I'm sure our fathers are still "fishing" together in heaven!

Jim Nettles

June 29, 2001

Nina, just returned from out of town to learn of my very special friend and your very dear husband. Even with the peacefullness he now surely knows, it is still difficult to accept. Your peace is in knowing that your love and caring made one great man very, very happy. You, too, are special. Love.

George & Mary Harris

June 29, 2001

Nina, George and I were saddened to see the loss of Richard. We often spoke of him and wonder how you both were doing in the Islands. Wish we had known you lived in Naples. We were there the second week of June and were just messing around. I know you will miss him terribly, but know that friends of old will be lifting you up in prayer...Geo & Mary

Susan, Lauren and Layne Adams

June 29, 2001

Nina,

He will rest peacefully now. We will keep you in our prayers as you

adjust to life without him. Wishing you the best. Love, Susan and girls

Carole McCune

June 29, 2001

Dear Nina, Stuart, Debbie, and Richard, Jr. - My thoughts and prayers are with you at this sad time. I know you have many, many fond memories that will sustain you. God bless.

Wanda and Dewey B. Nation

June 29, 2001

Around in 1970 Dr. Richard Dixon was my first dentist in Little Rock, Ark after my family dentist Dr. Bill Owens of Pine Bluff died suddenly with a heart attack. Richard saved my life for giving me all good dental work so I could chew properly. He was always jolly and did teasing me sometimes. He was probably one of the best dentist ever exited State of Arkansas however he was moving out to the Virgin Islands on account of taking some special chemotherapy on his prostrate cancer. We all will always miss him . . .

Gina and Tim Blackwell

June 29, 2001

Nina. . .we were so sorry to hear about Doc. As you know we have missed you both and think of you often. It is hard to imagine that we will not see Doc again. Just the mention of his name is enough to bring a smile to our and your faces. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this time.

Richard Byrd

June 28, 2001

Nina, so sorry to hear of Richard' passing. Jean and I often think of you and Richard and the great dental care you provided. Regards and our love. Richard and Jean Byrd

Cynthia & Mel Mathias

June 28, 2001

Nina,

We were sorry to hear about Richard. WE have missed you guys since you left the state and we will always remember him as the Dentist that changed my mind about dental work and your office was always a joy to visit. Literally. God bless you and your family at this time.

paul & david wilkerson

June 28, 2001

nina, we are very sorry about your loss. richard will always be remembed at cooter deer camp crossett arkansas. paul & david wilkerson

Middleton P. Ray,III

June 28, 2001

Dr. Dixon was a good friend of my Mom and Dad and was my dentist until I moved away from Arkansas.



I have fond memories of visiting his office in Little Rock. I remember how he fit me in for one last visit before I moved to Texas.

Jim Hoskins

June 28, 2001

Nina, It's hard to imagine this dynamic, talented, humorous and gentle man is no longer with us. I will always remember him and his wonderful smile. Our thoughts and prayers are with you in this time of sorrow and loss.

Sonya Goodwin (Flowers)

June 28, 2001

Dear Nina,

I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Dr. Dixon. He was my first dentist up to the time of the move from Arkansas. He was the Best Dentist Ever! My thoughts and prayers are with you during this very difficult time.

Carmen Cook

June 28, 2001

My heart and prayers are with you always.

Betty Jean Goodrum

June 28, 2001

Dearest Stuart, Nina and children, Learning of Richard's death has brought real sadness to all of us who grew up in the old neighborhood at "T" Street and Harrison. You Dixon boys formed the nucleus of our neighborhood fun group - there was "kick the can," "hide and seek," "May I?," "hopscotch," "Monopoly," snow sledding, roller skating, (and even fireworks). We'll always cherish those good times.

Rita Ann asked that I send her condolences, as well, and Ruth Peyton, also. We are there with you in our thoughts and prayers.

Betty Jean (Hamilton) Goodrum

Kay Sims

June 28, 2001

Nina and family,

I am so sorry for your loss. The days ahead will be filled with memories as well as sorrow. Concentrate on the happy memories.

Kay Sims

Bruce switzer

June 28, 2001

Nina, we at Crossett had the priviledge of hunting with Richard for many years. His stand will always be known as "The Dentists Stand". We will miss his jovial manner and wit. Bruce

DOT FINLAY

June 28, 2001

NINA: SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS. YOU BOTH WERE FUN PEOPLE. DR. DIXON WAS A KIND AND GENTLE MAN.

Sid Dabbs

June 28, 2001

Nina, our prayers are with you and your family for your loss. Richard will be affectionately remembered by all who knew him both as a friend and a professional.

Loretta Green Marsh

June 28, 2001

Dear Nina,

We were sadden to hear about Dr. Dixon's passing. He was truly one of the kindest and best dentists ever. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Loretta, Jennifer, Joel and Gabriel Green

Bea Ragan

June 28, 2001

Nina, our prayers are all for you today. And we celebrate with you having known Richard.

Barbara R. Patterson

June 28, 2001

Nina, My prayers are with you and your family. I still get dentists looking into my mouth and exclaiming, "My, what beautiful dental work you have, my dear." Richard was a fine man as well as a talented dentist.

Nancy (Marinko) Stewart

June 27, 2001

Dear Nina and Family,

I was so sorry to learn of Dr. Dixon's death. He was a kind and gentle man and an excellent dentist. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

Nancy (Marinko) Stewart

Linda Murphey

June 27, 2001

Dear Nina and Family,

I was saddened to hear of Dr. Dixon's passing. I have missed you both since you left Little Rock. He was a wonderful human being and a superb dentist. My thoughts and prayers are with you and the family.

Sincerely,

Linda Murphey

RAY CLAYTON

June 27, 2001

haven't seen Richard since 1953. He was a fine young man when I was growing up @ 5218 Country Club Blvd., 2 doors from the Dixons. Stewart, I know you will miss your brother.

Joe Holland

June 27, 2001

Dear Debbie: I knew you and your dad through Christie (late '70s). I always thought he was such a nice gentle person and I was shocked when I saw his name and picture in the June 27 newspaper. My condolences.I know there must have been great love between Richard and his grandchildren. He must have been a wonderful granddad.

Most sincerely, Joe Holland

Donna Brumett

June 27, 2001

Nina and family,

I just wanted you to know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. I truly enjoyed the years that I worked for both of you. May God bless all of you. All my Love, Donna Brumett

Bill, Dianne, Jennifer, Leslie Dalton

June 27, 2001

Nina and family - Sorry to hear about Dr. Dixon. I wanted to let you know are in our prayers and thoughts. The girls are home from college for a few weeks and we were just reminising about you and Dr. Dixon's kindness and warm reception to our family. You and the family will always be a part of our hearts and prayers.

Anita Taylor

June 27, 2001

former patient----Nina, i will never forget you and my favorite dentist. best wishes

Staff of Griffin Leggett Healy & Roth Funeral Home

June 26, 2001

Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.

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October 5, 2025

Richard Dixon posted to the memorial.

January 27, 2025

Debbie Hays posted to the memorial.

June 20, 2023

Richard Dixon posted to the memorial.