Dicye Marie Dixon

Dicye Marie Dixon was born to the late Richard Kirkpatrick, Sr. and Louise Simmons Kirkpatrick on February 13, 1946 in Henderson, Kentucky.

She was called home on December 9, 2023, surrounded by family at St. Thomas Midtown Hospital. Over the years, she battled with a multitude of health issues; however, she always remained true to her moniker, Granny Duck. She was loved dearly by many family members and was extremely devoted to her children, grandchildren, family, and friends.

Dicye was educated in the Davidson County Public school system, graduating from Pearl High in 1964. She also received some college credits at Tennessee State University in Business Administration.

She gave her life to Christ at an early age at Payne Chapel A.M.E. Church, later becoming a member of St. John A.M.E. Church. She served on the Usher Board and often came up with unique ways for children to serve within the church. She loved attending church until she became too sick to do so.

She began working for the State of Tennessee in 1969 and was employed for 37 years. She received multiple Service awards from then Governors Sundquist and Bredesen and awards for Outstanding Employee (nominated by her peers) prior to her retirement in 2006. She would often “flash her badge” at different establishments to prove she did not need to be carded. After retirement, she enjoyed working for the Tennessee Performing Arts Center for ten years as an usher, often taking her grandkids to various shows.

Dicye was known for her overzealous love for ducks. She had a huge collection that dawned her living room and welcomed all visitors. She had to scale back at one point because her collection was so grand. Her love for ducks garnered her the nickname, “Granny Duck.”

A granny and motherly figure she was to everyone she interacted with due to her caring nature and quirky humor. She often took on friendships and acquaintances with those whom needed a little extra love. She helped those who needed care and never expected anything in return. Her heart was genuine, and her joy was infectious.

Dicye enjoyed her life and loved the Lord. There is no denying her life left an impact on those she has come across. Although gone too soon, the memories of “Granny Duck” will forever be in our hearts.

She leaves to cherish her memories her devoted children, William (Lynn) Stone, Roderick (Marilyn) Stone, and Tambra Womack; grandchildren Joshua Stone, Donterius Majors Stone, Tianna Ewing, Mikayla Ewing, and Arcentae Stone; niece Tonia Kirkpatrick and nephew Richard Kirkpatrick, III;  niece Kimberly Kirkpatrick and nephew Rodney Kirkpatrick; great-grandchildren Jordyn Stone, Taylor Northington, Ma’Khi Ewing, Micah Ewing, Amira Gloria Diane Stone, Joshua Stone, Jr., and Dondrea Rosslyn Majors. She also leaves behind a life-long best friend and sister Jo-Ann Harlan, and many more close friends and family.