Sylvester Dixon

Sylvester "Rare Gem" Dixon, 90, was the first-born child to Alex Dixon, Sr. and Martha Jane (Howard) Dixon on July 14, 1935. Born and raised in Strong, Arkansas, he attended Pleasant Hill School and was baptized at Jerusalem Baptist Church.
"Like a rare gem, he was one of a kind - precious, steadfast, and forever shining in our hearts."
He built his life on hard work, faith, and a deep love for his family - leaving behind an example that will continue to inspire us all. He loved the outdoors and found peace in the simple things, whether out hunting or casting a line on the water. A self-made mechanic, he took pride in his work and was known by many in his glory days as "Mechanical Man", his CB handle.
From a young age, he dedicated his life to hard work and perseverance. He began his career as a business owner, running his own pulpwood company, and went on to hold many roles throughout the logging industry over the years. His strong work ethic and determination carried him through every chapter, eventually leading to a well-earned retirement in 2011 after many years as a truck driver. His journey was a true reflection of grit, pride, and the value of a day's honest work.
On March 4, 1956, he married the love of his life, Betty Jane Golden. To their union, ten children were born. She remained his caring and devoted wife for 53 years, until her passing in 2009. He was also preceded in death by his daughter, Dorothy Jean Thomas; sons, Lee Dell Dixon and Thomas Dixon; his parents and four siblings, Clarence Lee Dixon, Peggy Ruth Modica, Annie Sue Shelton and Edward Charles Dixon.
He leaves to cherish his memory his daughters, Jane Williams (Lee) of Huttig, AR, Betty Noles of El Dorado, AR, and Felicia Randall of Strong, AR; four sons, Vestal Dixon (Janice) of El Dorado, AR, Edward Dixon (Toni), Kenneth Dixon, and Brian Dixon, all of Strong, AR. He is also survived by his brothers, Wash Edward Dixon, Rev. Davis Dixon (Dorothy), and Alex Dixon Jr. (Burnita), all of Strong, AR. His legacy also includes 21 grandchildren, 44 great-grandchildren, and 4 great-great-grandchildren, along with a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends who loved him dearly. He also shared a special bond with his caregiver, Lois Gulley, who became a treasured friend.
His faith, strength, and love for others will forever remain in our hearts. He will be deeply missed but lovingly remembered by all who were blessed to know him.