Barbara Sue Dixon-Benton, IL

Barbara Sue Dixon, 77, of Benton, IL, passed away peacefully on Monday, January 5, 2026, at Deaconess Hospital in Marion, IL, surrounded by the love of her family.

Barbara was born on February 17, 1948, in Christopher, IL, to Harold “Lefty” and Rachel (Williams) Learned. On June 5, 1971, she married the love of her life, Melvin D. Dixon. Together they shared many cherished years until his passing on June 15, 2023.

Barbara was a faithful member of First United Methodist Church in Benton, where her kindness and gentle spirit reflected her strong faith.

Barbara was known as a true go-getter, always willing to work hard and help others. She had a deep love for fashion and took great pride in dressing her absolute best—something evident in her passion for working in retail and her joy in helping others look and feel their best. Throughout her life, she held many jobs and formed lasting friendships wherever she went. She worked at Lindwood Nursing Home in Benton, F.W. Woolworth on the Benton Square, The Hang Up Clothing Store in Christopher, and Harris Clothing Store in West Frankfort. She also shared her love of cooking by teaching classes at Rend Lake. She was also a member of the Benton Junior Woman’s Club and served as President around 1978.

One of Barbara’s greatest joys was taking time away from work to be a stay-at-home mother to her two beloved daughters, Amanda and Sarah. She was also an active part of their lives, serving as Girl Scout leader for them. Being their mom was her pride and greatest blessing.

When she returned to the workforce, Barbara worked at Anrap Rentals and then Target in Marion—where she enjoyed working alongside her dear friend Ruthie—and later at Benton Lawn Care, where she helped Larry and Randi Journey manage their business. She completed her working career at U.S. Bank, retiring in 2013. Barbara enjoyed serving her bank customers with warmth and a smile. She valued her US Bank co-workers and viewed all of them as family.

Above all, Barbara was a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. She found her greatest happiness in her family, especially her grandchildren, whom she adored beyond measure. Barbara rarely missed an opportunity to attend any events for her children and grandchildren and was always a proud, supportive presence in the stands, cheering them on with love while competing in their sport competitions.

Barbara also cherished the holidays, especially Halloween, which held a special place in her heart because it was Melvin’s favorite. She delighted in the memories of him dressing up as Michael Myers, a tradition that brought laughter and joy to their family. She also deeply enjoyed Thanksgiving and Christmas, treasuring those times when family gathered together, creating memories filled with love, togetherness, and tradition. One of her favorite pastimes was gambling and playing slot machines, especially when she could enjoy that time alongside her sister, making memories filled with laughter and fun.

Barbara is survived by her loving daughters, Amanda (Troy) Miller of Benton, IL, and Sarah (Derek) Stowers of Benton, IL; five cherished grandchildren, Matthew Miller, Logan Stowers, Isabella Miller, Lenox Stowers, and Lance Stowers; her sister, Melissa “Missy” Learned of Benton, IL; her brother-in-law, James “Jim” Dixon; four nephews, Dewayne (Anthony Schrauth) Eubanks, Travis Dixon, Ryan Dixon, and Corky Miller; five nieces, Erin (David) Holley, Kristen (TJ) Tomshack, Aleicia Morris, Jill (Randy) Blythe, and Debbie (Bob) VanWinkle; many nieces, nephews, and cousins near and far; and her dear friends, Amanda Dial, Jennifer Webb, and Ruthie Walters.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Harold “Lefty” M. Learned, Sr., and Rachel F. Learned; her beloved husband, Melvin D. Dixon; her sister, Brenda Kay Eubanks; and her brothers, Thomas “TJ” D. Learned and Harold M. Learned, Jr.

The family expresses profound gratitude to the dedicated team of nurses and doctors at Franklin Hospital in Benton, for their exceptional care and unwavering compassion during Barbara’s courageous health battles. A special thanks to Dr. Shah at Deaconess, who provided steadfast guidance, and the ICU nurses at Deaconess Hospital who offered comfort and kindness that truly made a difference in our final days together. Your professionalism, empathy, and dedication to Barbara’s comfort gave our family strength and precious moments we will forever cherish.

Services have been entrusted to Pate Funeral Home and Crematory, 301 South Main Street, Benton, IL.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, January 11, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Monday, January 12, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., at Pate Funeral Home in Benton, IL.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, January 12, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Pate Funeral Home in Benton, IL, with Pastor Jesse Hinds officiating. Burial will follow at the Masonic and Odd Fellows Cemetery in Benton, IL.