“"I feel a great tie to my family. I love my children and their spouses and I adore each of my grandchildren. I have tried to help each new mother, attend each baptism, go to each graduation and support my family in every way I could. I have loved all our family trips in the 'Big White Bus' and all of our fishing trips in the boat. My family means everything to me."
Life story
Dixie Burrup Johnson was born on June 5, 1941, in Malad City, Idaho to Percy Edward Burrup and Ora Hamilton Burrup. She married the love of her life, Terry Warren Johnson, in the LDS Salt Lake Temple on August 18, 1966. As the wife of an Air Force pilot, Dixie spent years living and traveling around the world and thoroughly enjoyed every minute of it. She especially loved living in Germany where they spent 9 wonderful years; 6 in the Air Force and 3 serving alongside her husband as the mission leaders over the Germany Leipzig Mission. Throughout her life, Dixie was well known for being a loving wife, mother, and grandmother.
After a long illness, Dixie passed away peacefully in her sleep on August 2, 2023. She was preceded in death by her parents (Percy Edward & Ora Hamilton Burrup), her in-laws (J. Van & Elsie Jacqueline Johnson), and her grandson Isaac. Dixie is survived by her husband (Terry Warren Johnson), her children David (Amanda), Mike (Elise), Mark (Heidi), and Shelly, 18 grandchildren (Kelsey (Campbell), Abby, Lincoln, Madison, Lucas, Gavin, Jacob, Samantha, Genevieve, Elaina, Courtney, Simon, Granite, Matthew, Sabrina, Philip, Kassidy, and Kai), her sisters Kaye (Glen Hunsaker), Beverly (Scott Zimmerman), Marj (Bill Cornelius), and Diane (Gaylen Lawyer), and countless other aunts, uncles, relatives, and dear friends all across the world. Loved and adored by all who knew her, Dixie will be missed. Until we meet again. #FamiliesAreForever
I got to spend a good amount of time with Grandma before she passed. I would come over and visit her at Jamestown a few times a week to feed her a filet o fish and an orange soda. She didn’t talk much and she spent most of the day sleeping, but whenever I walked through the door her eyes would just light up and she would have a big smile on her face. It was great to see her smile. She would smile and nod and stick her tongue out when I would talk to her about Jane Lane, the dog Taser, or the other ladies in the memory care unit. It was in these moments that I could see her heart and personality shine through the physical barriers she faced toward the end of her life. Memories of playing pick up sticks or pass the pigs, riding in the big white bus, or dancing when someone brought out chocolate. Grandma J was always a perfect example of Christlike love and heart full of joy. I miss her and can’t wait to be reunited again after this life.❤️
Grandma J is the kind of person that leaves a forever impression on your mind and your heart. The kind where your entire life is changed for the better. She was overflowing with laughter, love, comfort, fun and everything else that is good. Every memory I have with her makes me laugh out loud and cry a little. I remember her visiting me in college and all of my friends would ask to hang out with her. And when she would leave they would ask when she was visiting next. She was an instant best friend and confidant to everyone. Grandma J was a lover of life and I know it’s because of her love of Jesus Christ. She is a light to everyone around her. Grandma J would always say her favorite color was “sky blue pink”. I have known that forever. Even my friends know about it and have texted me saying things like “did you see the sunset tonight? It was sky blue pink! Made me think of you and your grandma <3”. I love that I have that connection. I like to think that she’s helping create the sunsets and sunrises. I love that every day I can look for Grandma J in the sky.
"Yoo Hoo!" With this familiar greeting, my next door neighbor, Dixie, would bring sunshine into our home. Dix shared joy wherever she went. She always thought of others and was a friend to all.
Always sharing.
Always caring.
Dix decided to serve a mission for the Church after we participated in the Hill Cumorah Pageant. That lead to other missions and a lifetime of service with Terry. She was known for her kindness, generosity, sharing the gospel, and suggesting the next best book to read. She became known as the "Cookie Grandma" in her neighborhood.
Though separated by time, location and life experiences we remained in touch and didn't "skip a beat" when reunited.
Our "goodbye" ritual was noteworthy and has become a staple for my grandchildren.
I cherish our friendship.
"I love you, Dix."
Tawn
Love and condolences to Beverly Burrup Zimmerman on behalf of Olivia Smith Baird (who is probably greeting your sister) and from me, Olivia's sister, Barbara Kay Smith Rytting. Yours is a wonderful family and enjoyed knowing you during our high school years.
It is with great sorrow that we recieved the news about the passing away of Dixie. We send our condolences to Terry and his children and grandchildren. We will remember the precious moments we had together in Leipzig and Dresden. Our thoughts are with you all.
The Fletcher family.
Dixie was a sweet cousin. Dixie was always sweet an friendly and had the most beautiful smile and a hug. I remember the special visit to our home when I was taking care of my mom and Kaye, Dixie and Beverly came to visit her. The Hamilton reunions were special with visiting each other to listening to the stories of our grandparents and growing up of the Hamilton home, then eating, playing games and taking pictures was always shared with love. Our prayers and thoughts go out to your family at this time. She is enjoying her time now with the family on the other side of the vail. Love to you all.
Dale and Renee Poulter Allen
I met Dixie after I was engaged to her son, Mark. She was always kind and caring. She loved to laugh and gave the best hugs! Dixie really loved her family! She loved her parents, sisters, husband, children, and grandchildren. I feel so blessed to have had this exceptional woman in my life! And I’m so thankful that families are forever!!
Dixie and I lived across the street from one another during our teenage years. We marked a spot in the middle of the street where we would separate, able to walk the exact number of steps to each of our homes. We would count our steps, pause on our doorsteps, holler "I'm OK" and wave as we entered our thresholds. All those counted steps and waves developed a bond which has lasted through all the years since. Dixie has always been a true, trusted, treasured friend. I look forward to our continued association in the eternities.
As she has suffered her illness, I have missed her kind, thoughtful, humorous ways. She always left me with a grateful, happy heart.
Mark a spot for me, Dixie. Love, Charlotte
Terry & Dixie dancing
Dixie Burrup Johnson tribute video
