Dixie Dawn Peters Kays was born in Ansley Nebraska on September 12, 1932, and fell asleep in death on February 2, 2021. Her father, Floyd, and Mother, Audrey Peters, moved their family to Chico CA, when Dixie was about two years old. Dixie, along with her father were baptized as one of Jehovah's Witnesses in 1942. She was 10 years old at the time of her Dedication to Jehovah God. Two years later, she tragically lost her father in a farming accident. Dixie was always an excellent student and graduated with High Honors from Chico High School in 1950. After she graduated, she had the opportunity to become a professional pianist. But, she turned it down because she always had the goal of becoming a full time Minister. She was able to use her musical gift by playing the piano at Circuit Assemblies, Conventions, and during the Christian meetings at the Kingdom Hall and at her own Gilead graduation. She also shared her love of music with hundreds of students over the years.
Dixie’s uncle, Eldon Peters, introduced her to the love of her life, Harry Kays. They were married in Reno Nevada, June 25, 1950. They were happily married over 60 years, until Harry fell asleep in death. Harry and Dixie devoted their entire life to Jehovah God and received many blessings throughout the years. They willingly served wherever they were asked to go. Shortly after their marriage, they were assigned to Fort Scott, Kansas. Dixie loved their assignment so much that when they received a letter inviting them to attend the 26th class of Gilead Bible School, she cried at the thought of leaving her Bible students. Harry and Dixie graduated from Gilead Bible School in February, 1956, and were assigned to be missionaries in Paraguay, South America. Harry also served as the Branch Coordinator. They had many wonderful experiences during their 10 years in Paraguay, but they also experienced hardships. One of the worst times was when Dixie contracted hepatitis and became very ill and nearly died. Brother Knorr, the President of the Watchtower Society, had a doctor from the United States give them instructions on how to care for her. Harry along with Dixie’s missionary pioneer partner, Gabby, spoon fed her water every half hour. It took several months for her to fully recover. Dixie often told the story of how Harry and Gabby saved her life! Later, in 1996, they, along with their son, David, were blessed to be able return for the dedication of the Branch in Paraguay.
Upon returning to the United States they settled in Vista, CA, where they lived for over 50 years and raised their family. In 1967, they were blessed with their first son, David. Four years later, they were blessed with their second son, Michael. Harry and Dixie led a simple life and continued to put Jehovah first in their lives. They were known for their hospitality and often opened their home for gatherings. For many years, Dixie taught piano lessons, from their home, to supplement the family income. This also allowed her to continue her ministry work. Altogether, Dixie devoted over 50 years to the full time ministry. She is survived by her two sons, David and Michael, along with many relatives. She loved her family and she loved her creator. As her health failed, her son David, was able help care for her after the death of his father. Dixie will always be fondly remembered as a loving wife, mother, mentor, and Christian sister to all.
The family would like to request, in honor of Dixie's memory, that instead of flowers, please consider donating to the world wide work of Jehovah’s Witnesses on www.jw.org.
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