Dixie Lee Paulos, 85, of Bloomfield, died at 12:05 p.m. April 23, 2024 at Hospice House in Ottumwa.
She was born January 26, 1939 in Ottumwa to Jack Ross and Mary Ellen Baxter Lawson. She married Nathan E. Paulos Jr. November 4, 1972.
A graduate of Ottumwa High School, Dixie attended Truman State University and Indian Hills Community College, earning her R.N. degree. Dixie was exceptional at many things. Starting as a beautician in her mother’s shop, she had worked for John Morrell & Co. and as kitchen manager at Days Inn. For 17 years she worked for Good Samaritan Society – Ottumwa as a nurse and R.N. Case Manager. She owned and operated Mary’s Midway Restaurant and Mary’s Canteen in Bloomfield, along with operating several food trucks for over 4 decades.
Dixie was a member of the Order of Eastern Star Rose Chapter #552. She was an avid book reader, loved cooking and owned a large collection of cookbooks. Dixie was an excellent teacher and mentor, especially to other nurses, as well as a wonderful leader and role model. She was very religious and was a kind soul.
Surviving is her husband, Nathan; their daughter, Chrystal (Richard Himes PhD.) Paulos, PhD. of Atlanta, GA; a sister, Jackie Gates of Kirksville, MO; several nieces and nephews including Jack Gates; sister-in-law, Naomi (Tim) Clark; and brothers-in-law, Jerry Paulos Sr. and Harry “Dube” Paulos; a sister-in-law, Linda Paulos.
She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers-in-law, Bill Gates and Ed Paulos; a sister-in-law, Kim Paulos; and a niece, Zola Morris.
Visitation will be open at 10 a.m. Friday, April 26th at Reece Funeral Home with the family present to greet friends from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Friday.
Funeral services will be 1 p.m. Saturday, April 27th at Reece Funeral Home with Rev. Bruce Pilcher and Pastor Mel Kendall officiating. Burial will be in Shaul Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to Hospice Serving Davis and Wapello Counties.
