

She was born in Galveston, Texas on January 1, 1941. Her family moved frequently throughout her childhood before settling in Glendale, Arizona, during her teenage years. She graduated from Washington High School and went to work for the phone company as a switchboard operator. Soon after, she attended Flagstaff College and took a summer course in child psychology at Grand Canyon College, where she captured the attention of a southern boy from Tennessee named John Robert Dixon. Bob and Theresa were
married June 1, 1963, and moved back to his hometown in Memphis, Tennessee, in a Ford Falcon truck. While Bob taught English at Douglass High School, Theresa worked as a bookkeeper for Dean Witter Reynolds and later for American Signature Graphics.
They raised three girls, living out their love for Jesus in
practical ways and setting an example of service for their children to follow. Theresa was active in church, teaching Sunday School, singing in choir, and playing handbells. She loved to read and volunteered at the Memphis Library. People were drawn to her steady nature, her quick wit, and her warm hospitality. She was generous with those she loved, whether you needed a lastminute
baby-sitter, a host and menu for an event, a place to stay for an
extended time, or a sound piece of advice.
Theresa was a friend who would celebrate with you when times were good and support you when times were tough. She gave of herself. Theresa was quick to see a need and meet it, preferring to work quietly behind the scenes rather than seeking the spotlight, content to let the love of Jesus shine instead.
Theresa is survived by her devoted husband of 62 and a half years John Robert Dixon, her three daughters Laurel Smith (Matt), Amy Katz (Mark), and Heather Busby (Brian), nine grandchildren Thomas (Katie), Patrick, Austin, Colson, Jackson, Peyton, Savannah, Marin, and Zach, and one great granddaughter Harper. Additionally, she leaves behind her brother- and sister-in-law Richard and Twyla Dixon, niece Beth, and nephew Rich (Anne). Cherished by family and friends, Theresa leaves a legacy of love and service that reflected her faith in Jesus Christ.
A visitation will be held at First Evangelical Church, located at 735 Ridge Lake Blvd, Memphis, TN 38120, on January 20, 2026, from 2:00 pm to 3:30 pm.
A memorial service will follow at the same location on January 20, 2026, beginning at 3:30 pm.
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