Sally Dix

Sally Dix, of the Abbey Park Senior Community in New Hudson, a beloved mother, grandmother and friend, passed into eternal life Saturday morning, March 8, 2025, at Brighton Serenity Care. \She was 96 years old. \\

Sally was born December 7, 1928, in Michigan, the beloved daughter of the late George and Viola (Owen) Gildemeister. \She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of over 71 years, Willis “Bill” Dix February 25, 2020.

Sally was known for her no-nonsense approach to life and her unwavering love for her family, Sally built a life centered around structure, laughter and deep connections.

Raising her four boys in a home filled with routine and discipline, Sally instilled in them a sense of stability that they cherished. She ran a tight ship, but her household was one of love, order and reliability. Her punctuality was unmatched, and she provided for her family with dedication and strength. While she was direct and to the point, her colorful sense of humor and quick wit ensured that no moment was ever dull in her presence.

Sally adored her grandchildren and formed a unique, youthful, and contemporary bond with each one—eschewing traditional roles for a fun-loving, forward-thinking relationship. She was the kind of grandmother who could make you laugh, share in a joke, and always offer a listening ear.

Her passions in life were as vibrant as her personality. She loved a good game of cards, particularly pinochle and hearts, and never turned down a chance to play bingo. 

Her trips to Las Vegas, spanning over 30 years, were a testament to her adventurous spirit and love for excitement. Smoking, storytelling and laughter were among her trademarks, making every gathering a memorable one.

A devoted wife, Sally cared for her husband, Bill, with deep love and tenderness as his health declined. Together, they raised their family in Farmington in a home they built on Lakeway before moving to Rogers City in northern Michigan around 1980. When Bill’s health took a turn in 2018, they moved back downstate to Abbey Park Senior Community in New Hudson, where Sally quickly became known as the “Queen of Abbey Park.” There, she continued to be a source of wisdom, humor and companionship to all who knew her.

Sally was the person you could always turn to for sage advice, a helping hand, or simply a good laugh when you needed it most. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered for her fierce love, her unshakable strength, and the joy she brought to those around her.

Sally was the devoted and loving mother of four sons, Gregory (Patricia), Gary (Lori), George (Cathy) and Grant (Theresa); cherished grandmother of Jason (Shayne) Dix, Matthew (Mindy) Dix, Karen (Brad) Musolf, Jenny (Chad) McDaniel,

Ryan (Claudia) Dix, Jeannine (Tom) Bennett, Stacy (Jim) Tilley, Brandon Dix, Heather (Mike) Schultz, E.J. Schattenberg, Timothy (Jeana) Dix, Daryl (Stephanie) Dix and the late Brian Schattenberg. \Sally is also survived by 30 great-grandchildren and one great-great-granddaughter. \

Family and friends may gather for visitation at the Heeney-Sundquist Funeral Home, downtown Farmington, Friday, March 14, from 2-8 p.m. \A time of prayer and remembrances is scheduled for 6:30 p.m.

Private interment will take place Monday afternoon, March 17, at Great Lakes National Cemetery, Holly Township. \

In lieu of flowers, those who wish to further honor Sally’s life are invited to consider a contribution to Compassus Hospice.

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