Dixie Lee DeQuasie

Born on August 17, 1939, in Rocky Ford, Colorado, Dixie was the beloved daughter of the late Maxine and Lowell “Smitty” Smith and an oldest of four children. Dixie was preceded in death by two of her younger brothers, Darol Smith of Los Animas, CO, Delbert Smith of Grants Pass OR and has one remaining brother, Denny Smith of NM. She graduated from La Junta High School and went on to attend beauty school, becoming a licensed hair beautician. In 1957, she married Robert L. DeQuasie, with whom she shared a loving life until his passing in 1997. Following their marriage, they moved to Ft. Collins and that is where she has resided for the last 63 years.

Dixie dedicated over 40 years of her career to Fort Collins High School, where she served as Registrar and Administrative Assistant for the Counseling office. She was a steady and compassionate presence for students and staff alike. Her dedication left a lasting impact on the school community.

Known for her selflessness, unconditional love, and deep affection for animals, Dixie lived a life centered on family, kindness, and service to others. She was a devoted mother to her daughters, Karen Gauthier of Overland Park KS, Kellie Smith of Evergreen CO, Kristen DeQuasie Cantonwine of Windsor CO, her faithful cat Dodge and rescue dog Darla and mourned the recent passing of her son, Robert (Bobby) DeQuasie of Ft Collins. Dixie loved the mountains, camping and fishing was a family past time. She also had a love for sports. When Dixie was not working, you would find her at one of the grandchildren’s sport’s events cheering them on.

Dixie’s legacy continues through her ten grandchildren, Dannette Kathryn Seward, Melisa Louise Block, Sheila Kristine Seward, Tina Purvis, Nicole Zito, Samantha Cantowine, Sebastian Zito, Oren DeQuasie, Rob DeQuasie, and Madison DeQuasie as well as six great-grandchildren: Price, Axton, Tylee, Raegan, Justin, and Sebastian IV. She also left behind her faithful recue dog Darla who was her constant companion.

She will be remembered for her warmth, grace, and unwavering love.

A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. at Allnutt Funeral Services, located at 650 W. Drake Rd., Fort Collins, CO 80526.