Dixie Lee Schumacher

Dixie Lee Jones Schumacher, daughter of Robert and Frances Jones, entered this world on August 13, 1945, in Fullerton, California.  Dixie enjoyed a beautiful childhood growing up with her sister, Barbara, in Placentia, California, but frequently found herself nurturing that fun country spirit at her family’s ranch in Valley Center, California.  Dixie was a proud and spirited graduate of Valencia High School, serving as a Cheerleader for her favorite “Tigers.”  She prided herself in balancing both academic and social priorities, serving in several leadership roles and receiving honors such as Homecoming Queen. Dixie loved all music and enjoyed dancing, but it was Elvis Presley who captured her musical heart.  Singing and dancing alongside “The King” became one of her favorite pastimes.

In 1966, Dixie married the love of her life, John F. Schumacher, and together they had two beautiful children: John and Natalie.  Her spirit was best fed through celebrating the joys and blessings of life with others so was frequently found entertaining family and friends in their home. Her musical gifts landed her a role in her husband’s band, an honor she always cherished.  Along with her family, Dixie was no stranger to sports and reveled in supporting California teams such as the Angels, Lakers and 49ers.

While later raising Natalie and John as a single mom, Dixie successfully balanced home and work, working for the Boeing Company for over twenty years.  As her children went on to have children of their own, Dixie’s focused shifted to her cherished grandchildren, whom she affectionately referred to as her “cherubs.”  Dixie proudly dedicated her time to support her children and grandchildren, attending games and activities and hosting family gatherings whenever possible.  Dixie’s home was also “home” to several pets that she adored: RL and Precious were her cherished dogs; Pooky and Corky were her cats, providing comfort even into her final days.

Dixie concluded her earthly journey to join our Lord on October 14, 2020.  She is survived by: her daughter, Natalie Schumacher Keplinger (Doug), and granddaughter, Maddison Lee, of New Meadows, Idaho; her son, John Derek Schumacher (Misty), and two grandsons, Jack Ryan and Henry Davis, of Anaheim Hills, California; her sister Barbara Jones Calliham of Henderson, Nevada.

Dixie’s Funeral Mass will be held at San Antonio de Padua Catholic Church in Anaheim Hills on Wednesday, October 28, at 10am.  Dixie will be laid to rest at Holy Sepulcher Cemetery in Orange, California.