Thelma Mae Dixon

Thelma Mae Hayes Dixon

December 11, 1930 – March 16, 2026

Thelma was born in Johnson County, Georgia on December 11, 1930 and was a long-time resident of Garden City, GA before moving upstate to Toccoa. She was the daughter of the late Flora Mae Williams Hayes Drake and John Cecil Hayes.

Thelma took great pride in her work ethic and her ability to build a meaningful life through dedication and service to others. She began her career at Merrill Lynch as a secretary and, through determination and skill, advanced to become an accountant assistant. She was known for her exceptional cooking, generously preparing meals for family and friends and contributing her talents to various catering activities, where some of her recipes became area favorites. She was also a gifted creator, crocheting afghans and crafting intricate Christmas ornaments for her family, each piece made with love and care. She also found joy in gardening, delighting in nurturing plants and watching them grow. A devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, Thelma’s greatest fulfillment came from caring for those she loved. She was a longtime and faithful member of the Garden City United Methodist Church and was especially active in a United Methodist Women circle, where she formed lasting friendships and served her community.

Thelma died peacefully at Wilkinson Care Center in Toccoa with family at her side. She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband, Harmon Dixon, and is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Diane and Richard Hathaway; granddaughters, Elizabeth Hathaway and Rebecca (and Jay) O’Shields; and great grandchildren, Quinn and Coda O’Shields.

The private, family graveside funeral and burial was held on Saturday, March 21st at Forest Lawn Memory Gardens.

Remembrances may be given to Family Hospice Foundation, 4562 Forsyth Rd, Ste 4, Macon, GA 31210.

Thomas C. Strickland & Sons Funeral Homes - WEST CHATHAM CHAPEL (912) 748-2444