La Conner Weekly News - Your independent hometown award-winning newspaper

Dixie Otis had a way with words, a knack for saying just the right thing to lift one’s spirits, to encourage and inspire.

Not even death, which came unexpectedly on Sunday, can silence that voice.

Dixie’s genuine compassion, tireless enthusiasm and unconditional support for the community to which she devoted her life’s work and cheerful volunteerism continues to be heard in the heartfelt condolences shared by many here upon learning of her passing.

Those words speak volumes about someone whose impact on the La Conner and Swinomish communities could fill a book. A long one, at that.

A major chapter was written at La Conner Schools, where as the daughter of a local pioneer family she had been a student, and to which she would return in the early 1960s to teach second grade. She remained a champion for her students long after they left her classroom.

La Conner Schools’ staff credit Dixie with having helped countless students earn their diplomas and go on to forge successful lives, practicing the commitment to career and public service that she modeled so well in and out of class.

Hers was a classroom that encouraged critical thinking, that fostered freedom of expression. She made school fun, setting in motion for kids across generations the concept of education as a lifelong pursuit.

She wanted her students to grow, to succeed and enjoy learning for its own sake.

It was just the message many of them wanted – and needed – to hear.

Parents and colleagues took note as well.

“Dixie exemplified what La Conner stands for – always,” said former Lady Braves soccer coach Amy Freeto. “She was absolutely one of my favorite people that La Conner blessed me with having in my life. I will miss running into her and laughing with her, sharing stories and again, laughing.

“She made us all better people,” Freeto added, “and La Conner a better place.”

Dixie, it seemed, was everywhere her presence would be helpful to others – at games, attending concerts and stage plays, at study and homework tables, joining parades and filling shifts at fundraisers.

Most recently, you could find her working at the Soroptimist’s Vintage La Conner store, a role in which she served as an unofficial goodwill ambassador for the town, or tutoring high school student-athletes. She shared her quick wit and insightful humor at the Bonko gatherings she so enjoyed, as well.

She could also be of great comfort on less joyous occasions. Dixie was known to give the biggest hugs in times of sorrow, a sense of empathy cherished forever by those she comforted.

Many for whom she was there in both good and tough times will file into Maple Hall Saturday at 1 p.m. for a public memorial service.

They will be seeking words of encouragement and inspiration – the kind for which Dixie Otis was best known, and will comprise her lasting legacy.

Parking is limited, but available in La Conner’s town-owned lot, directly below Town Hall; permits are needed and can be acquired through Kern Funeral Home 360-336-2153.

The Vintage Store will be closed Saturday in order for all to attend her service.