Thomas Woodson Dixon, Jr.

Woody was born in Staunton on December 27, 1949, to Thomas Woodson Dixon, who predeceased him at age 98, and Doris Haines Dixon, now 104 years old.

After attending Staunton Public Schools, Woody graduated from The University of Virginia in 1972 with a Bachelor of Arts. He served in the U.S. Military from 1973-75, part of that time in Nuremberg, Germany, Honorably Discharged as Army SP 4.

He graduated from The University of Richmond T.C. Williams Law School in 1978 where he was a member of The Law Review. He began a solo law practice in Staunton with the help of his wife, Mary. Most of his law career was spent as Partner at Nelson, McPherson, Summers & Santos. After many years serving as an attorney to those subject to civil commitment proceedings, he served as a Special Justice in Staunton and Augusta County from 1996 until shortly before his death.

An avid golfer in earlier years, he later developed a love of woodworking and made handsome pieces of furniture that grace his home. He enjoyed a fine camaraderie at the Frontier Culture Museum Woodshop and was grateful for friends and mentoring there.

Woody loved his home and loved being at home. He was a fan of crossword puzzles. He loved reading The Washington Post. He was content to tackle home renovation projects on his own and had an infinite amount of patience in those endeavors. He always cooked himself “real” meals and had a self challenge to bake the perfect French baguette.

Woody had an unassuming, endearing personality with a quick and dry wit. Many never knew he was joking. He was a quiet and humble soul who never imposed his views but rather accepted others as they were. Several years ago Woody’s mother and sister were told by an acquaintance, “Woody Dixon is the most interesting person I’ve ever talked to!”

Woody was predeceased by his wife, Mary Koch Dixon, the love of his life and treasured companion in gardening, gourmet cooking and home renovations.

In addition to his mother, Woody is survived by his sister, Louisa, of Staunton; his brother-in-law, Bill Koch and wife Sally of Swoope; his children Steve Dixon of New Smyrna Beach, Florida; Robin Cotterman and husband Jay of Yuma, Arizona; Erin Marley and husband, Cole, of Crozet, Virginia; and grandchildren Owen and Mary Marley of Crozet.

Other surviving relatives are cousins Sandy and Debi Gadberry of Richmond, Virginia, and Julie Fischer, Mary Kay and John Daves of Virginia Beach.

Graveside burial will be private, conducted by his dear friend, Connie Davis.

The family welcomes friends to a reception at Woody’s home, 1327 North Augusta Street, Saturday, June 10, from 1:00-4:00 pm.

Arrangements entrusted to Reynolds Hamrick Funeral Homes, Staunton.

Relatives and friends may share condolences and memories with the family online by visiting www.reynoldshamrickfuneralhomes.com