Dixie Fern (Emick) Durward

Dixie Fern (Emick) Durward, age 84, passed away peacefully on February 12, 2025 at her home in Raymore, Missouri, She was preceded in death by her parents, Edna Lee O'Bannon and Kenneth Fern Emick, brothers Kenneth Lee Emick, and Michael David Emick.

Dixie was born on November 18, 1940 in Clinton, Missouri. She graduated in 1958 from Urich High School, and then she attended Business College in Kansas City, Missouri. Following graduation, she worked for Army Records Center, where she met her future husband, Lorne "Jim" Durward. After they were engaged, she moved to California. Dixie and Jim were united in marriage on November 10, 1962.

Dixie graduated in 1978 from El Camino College in Torrance, California as a Registered Nurse. She worked as an Orthopedic Nurse, and then as a GI nurse. When Jim retired, they moved back to Missouri, and Dixie went on to be a GI and Oncology Nurse at Golden Valley Hospital in Clinton, Missouri. 

Dixie and Jim enjoyed travelling the world, and visited over 80 countries, including both the North and South Poles. Australia, New Zealand, and Tasmania was a particularly favorite trip for them. Another favorite trip was the one she took to Ireland with her mother, and sister, Sheryl Helm. 

Dixie was an avid reader of romance novels. She loved to bowl, cook, bake, and gambling at the casino! She was a member of the Grand River Homemakers, and the Red Hats Club for many years. Dixie was a devoted Royals and Chiefs fan, and always supported her teams by wearing her many team shirts.

Surviving are her husband, Jim of 62 years; daughters Shannon Fox, and Erin Fox (Terry); son, Kelly Durward (Andrea); a sister, Sheryl Helm; 14 grandchildren, and 19 great-grandchildren. 

As many know, Dixie's favorite color was blue. In her honor, we are asking any who wish to attend the graveside service wear any color of blue.

A visitation will be held from 12:30 p.m-1:15 p.m Monday, February 24th, 2025 at Dickey Funeral Home, Harrisonville, Missouri. A Graveside Service will be held 2:00 p.m. Monday, February 24, 2025 at Urich Cemetery, Urich, Missouri. 

In lieu of flowers, a memorial contribution may be made to the Susan G Komen Foundation. Send in care to Dickey Funeral Home, P.O. Box 432, Harrisonville, MO 64701.