Dixie Smith Denney, 81, passed away peacefully on May 2, 2022 at Sardis Oaks in Charlotte. Dixie was born in Springfield, Ohio on June 22, 1940, where she was raised and graduated from Greenon High School and Wittenburg University, where she was a Chi Omega. She married her high school sweetheart, Thomas Edward Denney on June 8, 1963.
Following college, Dixie taught school in Springfield and after becoming a mother, moved to Charlotte, NC in 1972 with Tom. In Charlotte, Dixie enjoyed a long career in retail, opening Sunshine Gifts in 1977 with good friends Becky Sippe and Jackie Jackson Hills. After Sunshine closed, Dixie managed the gift and flower shop at Carolinas Medical Center and later became an invaluable employee of the The Buttercup, becoming the “go to” person for the perfect invitation. Dixie was a people person who cherished her numerous friends and friend groups. Dixie was an active member of Myers Park Presbyterian church, The Junior League of Charlotte, and the Mint Museum Auxiliary.
After Tom’s retirement, they both enjoyed many special years at their favorite place, Ocean Isle Beach. Tom and Dixie loved Ocean Isle Beach. They enjoyed walks on the beach, oyster roasts, Fourth of July parties, boat cruises, beach games with grandchildren and most of all, sitting on the front porch.
Dixie will always be remembered for her love of friends and family. She loved her three grandchildren and enjoyed many years of dance recitals, baseball, basketball, and football games. Her smile, spirit and love of family and friends will live in our hearts forever.
Dixie is preceded in death by her son, Jason Thomas Denney; her sister, Patricia; her parents; and her husband, and love of her life, Thomas Edward Denney. She is survived by her daughter, Melissa Denney Thompson and son-in-law, Scott Thompson; and her three grandchildren: Maddie Thompson, Denney Thompson and Wendell Thompson, all of Charlotte, NC. She is also survived by her sister, Sharon (Ron); brothers, Richard (Jean) and Jeff (Dona); and several nieces and nephews.
The family would like to express their gratitude to the staff of Sardis Oaks for Dixie’s care.
A memorial service will be held at 1:00 pm on Tuesday, May 10, 2022 at Myers Park Presbyterian Church. Memorials may be sent to Myers Park Presbyterian Church (2501 Oxford Place, Charlotte, NC 28207); Hospice & Palliative Care Charlotte; or the charity of your choice.
