Dixon Duff Dryden

It is with deep sorrow and profound love that we announce the passing of Dixon Duff Dryden, 75, of Manvel, Texas, who passed away peacefully on June 2, 2026. Born on February 24, 1951, in Houston, Texas, Dixon was a dedicated husband, father and grandfather. He built a life defined by steady work, perseverance through every season, and a deep love of God, family, country and community. In 1985, he married the love of his life, Susie. Together they spent 40 years building a beautiful life, raising their children, and creating memories that will be cherished forever.

Dixon held a very special place in his heart for his children and grandchildren. He always looked forward to spending holidays, birthdays and special occasions with his family. He loved having everyone over and grilling his famous chicken and making his spicy salsa. After dinner, Dixon would relax in his recliner with grand dog Willy resting on his lap. Whether gathered around the table at a family celebration or simply enjoying quiet moments together, Dixon found true joy in spending time with his family.

Dixon’s dedication to family started early in life. At a young age, he worked with his grandfather to help him grow his party boat business. He was always there to assist with whatever was needed; mechanical work, prepping the boat for the fishermen, etc. Later Dixon worked alongside his father on the family rice farm, gaining firsthand experience in agriculture. By the late 1970s, Dixon was operating the family farm. Dixon was always focused on helping his family, no matter what was needed.

An entrepreneur at heart, Dixon's unwavering integrity shaped his career and transformed an entire industry. Driven by passion and pride, he founded Environmental Construction Services (ECS) in 1992, building the business entirely from the ground up. ECS became the first company specifically dedicated to advanced aerobic septic systems in Brazoria County, Texas, a groundbreaking legacy that proudly continues today as a multi-generational family business. Dixon was a pivotal founding member and long-time Director at Large for the Texas On-Site Wastewater Association (TOWA) from roughly 1992 through 2013, eventually serving a distinguished tenure as TOWA President. Utilizing his extensive field experience, he collaborated directly with state regulators to draft the original Texas state rules and regulations for aerobic septic systems. This pioneering work—which included codifying perpetual maintenance contracts, setting strict disinfection standards, and creating statewide licensing for professionals—ultimately became the national model for advanced onsite wastewater management.

A proud veteran, Dixon served with distinction in the United States Army. Rising to the rank of Motor Pool Sergeant while stationed in Germany, he demonstrated exceptional skill and discipline throughout his service, earning both the Good Conduct Medal and the National Defense Service Medal. He was also recognized as an elite marksman, achieving the prestigious Expert Rifle Qualification for both the M-14 and M-16 rifles. Following his honorable discharge, he carried the Army’s core values of loyalty and integrity into his civilian life, leaving behind a legacy of dedicated service to his country.

Dixon was a remarkably private and deeply humble man who never sought the spotlight. He quietly gave decades of his life to his family, his hobbies, and his community. A true outdoorsman, he found peace hunting, fishing, camping, taking the rv to the national and state parks and tending to his garden. He enjoyed all of his hobbies. His woodworking, creating custom pens and building custom fishing rods kept him busy. He always had multiple projects started at the same time.

His lifelong love for speed and mechanics led him to spend several years in the pits helping a childhood friend with circle track racing—fixing cars and chasing checkered flags. He also dominated the local bowling lanes for several years, winning the 1982-1983 TCBA Championship and earning perfect 299 and 300 rings.

Dixon brought that same intense commitment to mentoring the next generation, volunteering for many years as a Cub Scout and Boy Scout leader, where he proudly guided both of his sons to the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout.

His compassionate, servant’s heart frequently took him across borders, traveling alongside his daughter to Mexico to volunteer for cataract surgery missions. He routinely rolled up his sleeves to help lay down plumbing systems for those in need.

Dixon lived a quiet life but left behind a massive impact on many people. His permanent legacy of silent strength, intelligence, a quick wit, and a servant's heart will never be forgotten. He will be deeply missed and always remembered.

Dixon was preceded in death by his father, Carl Armour Dryden; his mother, Fay Pullin Dryden; his sister, Mary Bland; and his brother, Bobby Dryden.

He is survived by his wife, Susan “Susie” Dryden; his children, Jason Dryden (Jennifer), Daniel Dryden, Jennifer “Jenny” Dryden (Isaiah Choy), and Jordan Dryden; and his grandchildren, Mason Dryden, Alyssa Armstrong, Quinn Choy, and Levi Choy.

Visitation will be held on June 15, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am. A Celebration of Life will follow on June 15, 2026, from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made in Dixon’s memory to the Wounded Warrior Project.