Clarence Lindel “Buddy” Dixon

Clarence Lindel “Buddy” Dixon was born on February 21, 1932, in Shelbyville, Tennessee, during the Great Depression—a time that shaped his resilience and character. On August 10, 1957, he married Martha Goodrich, the love of his life, and together they built a life of enduring love and partnership that spanned sixty-eight years. Their home was filled with laughter, faith, and love as they raised four children and welcomed numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren, creating a legacy of family that Buddy cherished above all else.

Buddy’s early years were marked by adventure and adaptability. He attended schools in four states in a single year and spent his boyhood on his grandparents’ farm near Shelbyville until age ten. In high school, he was a multi-sport athlete, earning All-State honors in basketball, and was provided a full college scholarship for football. One of his most vivid memories was sitting in a Montgomery, Alabama, movie theater on December 7, 1941, when news of the Pearl Harbor attack interrupted the film.

After graduating from Western Kentucky University, Buddy proudly served his country as a pilot in the United States Air Force, where he rose to the rank of Captain. He later transitioned to a successful career spanning thirty-three years in the oil, gas, and chemical industries, working in Houston, Dallas, and Atlanta, Georgia, before returning to Houston. His leadership skills earned him the role of Vice President of Sales & Marketing.

In 1996, Buddy and Martha retired to Hot Springs Village, Arkansas, affectionately dubbed "Camp Peeny Piney" by their grandchildren. Buddy immersed himself in community life for more than two decades, singing with the Cedar Mountain Singers, volunteering with Meals-on Wheels, and serving the Village as a member of the Architectural Control Committee and the Board of Directors. Buddy also contributed significantly to Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church. He served as Pastoral Council Chairman, Music Minister, and Cantor for more than fifteen years, and led the design and construction of the church’s Memorial Garden. Additionally, Buddy was a member of the 3rd and 4th degree Knights of Columbus.

Buddy and Martha returned to Houston in 2020 where he once again demonstrated his leadership as President of the Board at The Forum at Memorial Woods. Among his many contributions, he established on-site church services for residents, a testament to his dedication to faith and community.

Buddy is survived by his beloved wife, Martha; his children: David Dixon and wife Kristen, Marthalyn Weil and husband Bob, Anne-Marie McMichael and husband Ed, and Beth McGee and husband Jason; and by his twelve grandchildren and twenty-four great-grandchildren.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the doctors and staff at MD Anderson Cancer Center, Buddy’s hospice nurse, the home care team, staff and leadership at The Forum, and the many others who provided exceptional care and support during Buddy’s cancer journey. Their kindness and dedication meant so much to Buddy and his family.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to MD Anderson Cancer Center in memory of Buddy, supporting the vital work they do for patients and families.

Buddy’s life was defined by his deep faith, his unwavering love for his family, and his commitment to serving the communities he called home. His legacy is a testament to a life well lived and a heart well-shared.

A memorial mass will be held on Tuesday, July 8th at 12:00 PM at St. Teresa’s Catholic Church in Memorial Park. The church is located at 6622 Haskell Street, Houston, Texas. For those who wish to attend, a rosary will begin 30 minutes prior to the service. A reception will follow in the Fellowship Hall of the church.