Thursday, November 5, 2026 3:25 pm

Marvin Royce Dixon (Papa), age 96 passed away peacefully at Hospice of Wendover in Shelby on October 28th, 2026. He was born on December 21st,1929 to Marvin Dexter Dixon and Mary Gaskey Dixon. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Jocelyn Dixon Walker (Fred) and niece, Sheila Walker. He was also preceded in death by his wife of 47 years, Betty Faye Curtis Dixon, two sons, David Ray Dixon, Daniel Flay Dixon, and his wife of 24 years, Dorothy Richards Dixon.
Left to cherish fond memories of her precious father and family, is daughter, Gloria Dixon Sherman (Steve) of Shelby, daughter-in-law, Melanie Goble Dixon, brothers in law, Steve (Brenda) and Alan Curtis, nephews Robert (Pam), Jim (Brandy), and Johnny Walker. Great nephews and niece Caroline, Wyatt, and Ty Curtis. Grandchildren include: April Dixon, Matt Dixon (Haley), and Evan Dixon, Daniel Sherman (Sarah), Kevin Sherman (Jessica). Great Grand Children, Crystal and Chris Durbin, Emma Dixon, Colton Sherman, and Della Sherman as well as many other great-great grandchildren.

Royce retired from Fiber Industries in 1992 after 29 years of service. He continued to keep up with his work family and friends until his passing. He was proud of his career spent at Fiber. He was a proud member of the Shelby High Class of 1947! He enjoyed planning and attending his 79th class reunion this year with several classmates.

Royce was also a lifetime member of Calvary Baptist Church in Shelby. During these years he enjoyed teaching Sunday School and serving in roles that impacted youth and adults of all ages. Most importantly, he was a Christian, and did not hesitate to express his gratitude for the life he had lived, and his faith in God and his heavenly home one day. He raised his family in church, and was the very best daddy anyone could ever ask for. He was always there for anything or anyone providing support and encouragement.

He was a "fun-loving" guy and enjoyed playing a "live scarecrow" in his garden on Charles Road. This led to many smiles and waves from cars passing by. National press and local TV covered the attraction during a Carolina Camera feature. He enjoyed spending time with David, Danny, and Gloria's friends when they visited his home. He cherished each moment, and each person that spent time at his home on Charles Road. Whether they were doubled up in a chair or lining the floor from wall to wall laughing and enjoying the best of times together.

Royce especially enjoyed traveling, gardening, watching sports, and spending time with his grandchildren and great grandchildren. He also enjoyed watching sports, pulling for the UNC Tarheels, and visiting friends whenever he could. He was always willing to lend a helping hand, or simply spend time with them talking and reminiscing of past days and loved ones that shaped their lives.

The family will receive friends from 2:30-4:00 with a Memorial Service beginning at 4:00 to celebrate the life of Marvin Royce Dixon at Calvary Baptist Church on Monday, November 2nd. Donations can be made to Calvary Baptist Church, 320 Old Boiling Springs Road, Shelby NC. or Hospice of Wendover 953 Wendover Heights Drive, Shelby, NC 28150.

Online condolences may be made at www.cecilburtonfuneralhome.com

Cecil M. Burton Funeral Home and Crematory is honored to serve the family.