Cora Kirksey Dixon

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Cora Lee Kirksey Dixon, who entered eternal rest on December 13, 2024. Born on November 30, 1935, in Caddo Parish, Louisiana, Cora was the second child and eldest daughter in a family of nine, born to Lena M. Alexander and Shumpert Johnson. 

Cora was preceded in death by her parents, her beloved sisters Thelma Samuels and Minnie Pope, and her brother Leon Harvey. At the tender age of 12, she accepted Christ and was baptized on August 10, 1947, at the Great Elizabeth Baptist Church by Pastor A.B. Kesse. Her faith journey began early, and she became an active member of her church community, participating in Sunday School and serving as the Sunday School Secretary.

Cora graduated from Booker T. Washington High School in 1956 alongside her first husband, Henry Ervin Kirksey. The couple moved to California the same year and married on February 18, 1957. Together, they welcomed two daughters, Kim in 1959 and Avis in 1961. Cora’s journey as a pioneer in the West was supported by her family, as several relatives followed their path to California. 

Later in life she would meet and marry James Dixon; their unbreakable bond lasted over 50 years until James was called home on February 20, 2022. Together, they created a blended family that included 11 children, underscoring Cora's commitment to love and unity.

In California, Cora joined the Macedonia Baptist Church and later the Messiah Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Dr. Whalen S. Jones, where she was a devoted member for 67 years. As a trailblazer, she served in numerous church ministries, including the Choir, Usher Board, and as the first youth teacher. Cora was a steadfast servant for Christ, founding the church's Vacation Bible School program and the Mission Department, and dedicating over fifty years to outreach missions at Sunray Convalescent Homes. Her greatest joy was witnessing her daughters accept Christ as their personal savior and being baptized.

Cora also dedicated her time to youth activities, serving as a Camp Fire Girls and Blue Bird Girls director for several years. A woman of compassion, she refurbished dolls for children in need during the Christmas season. As a long-time resident of the 10th District of Los Angeles County, she became a block captain, advocating for her neighborhood's rights, and served as a fundraiser for the March of Dimes as well as her church's Mission Department.

Professionally, Cora led a rich and varied life. She worked as a seamstress for Bullocks Department Store, an aircraft assembler for McDonnell Douglas, and finally, in the meat department at Von’s Grocery Store. After 32 years, she retired to care for one of her grandsons, Xavier. 

Following the loss of her husband in 2022, Cora faced several health challenges but continued to live joyfully with her daughter until her passing. Her legacy is one of laughter, love, and profound wisdom.

Cora Lee Kirksey Dixon leaves behind a devoted family and a community that will forever remember her warm spirit, boundless love, and dedication to service. She is survived by her daughters Kim and Avis, her grandsons (Xavier & Kendrick), extended family, and numerous friends whose lives she touched over the years.

A Celebration of Life will be held on January 03, 2025, at the Messiah Baptist Church in Los Angeles. The Repast will be held at 1010 Restaurant & Events in Inglewood, immediately following the church service. The family invites all who knew and loved Cora to join them in honoring her beautiful life.

Rest in peace, dear Cora. Your spirit will forever dwell in our hearts.