Barry Dixon, 65, of Green Township, New Jersey, passed away peacefully at home on September 7, 2026. Born on May 15, 1961, in Dover, New Jersey, Barry built a life defined by steady devotion— to his family, friends, his work, and to the everyday joys that made him happiest.
Barry carried a quiet determination throughout his life that never wavered. He was hard-working in the truest sense: dependable, diligent, and proud of doing things well. That spirit shaped a career that spanned more than 40 years in information technology, currently as an Applications Specialist for the last 21 years with Selective Insurance.
At the center of Barry’s life was his family. He was the beloved husband of René Dixon who loved him dearly, and the two shared 28 years of marriage. Barry adored his daughter, Kaitlyn Dixon, and was an amazing dad—present, engaged, and deeply invested in the lives of those he loved. He was a very involved father, taking Kaitlyn to school every day, to dance class, and anything she needed or wanted. Kaitlyn was Barry’s world and he always expressed she was his main reason for existence. His compassion showed not in grand gestures, but in the consistent way he cared, listened, and made room for others.
Barry found real happiness in the things he loved. He was an avid fan of the Minnesota Vikings and loved fantasy football, bringing enthusiasm and passion to every season. He was also an avid golfer and proudly earned a hole-in-one while on one of his many trips to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Some of his favorite moments were spent attending Blues concerts with René, Kaitlyn, and his friends, sharing music and time together. And as an animal lover, Barry deeply loved his pets, offering them the same tenderness and loyalty that defined his life. Additionally, he had many lifelong friends who he enjoyed spending time and reminiscing with. Barry made friends wherever he went, especially his daily breakfast and comradery at the Tranquility Store.
Barry is survived by his beloved wife, René Dixon; his cherished daughter, Kaitlyn Dixon; his loving sister, Linda Messina (Dixon); his niece, Alicia Messina; and his sister-in-law, Diane Dixon. He was preceded in death by his father, Donald Dixon; his mother, Betty Dixon; and his brother, Donald G. Dixon.
Visitation will be held from 2 pm to 6 pm on Sunday, September 13, 2026, at Smith-McCracken Funeral Home, 63 High St., Newton, NJ. Family and friends are also invited to gather the following day, Monday September 14, 2026 at 9 am at the funeral home, which will be followed by a procession and graveside service at 11 am at Gate of Heaven Cemetery & Mausoleum, 225 Ridgedale Ave, East Hanover, NJ.
Memorial donations may be made to Father John's Animal House, 50 Father John's Lane, Lafayette, New Jersey 07848, or online at https://www.fatherjohns.org/donate/
Condolences and warm memories may be offered to Barry's family below.
