Dixie L. Garabrandt

Dixie L. Garabrandt, age 74, a life-long resident of New Philadelphia died peacefully, with her family at her side, early Sunday, October 30, 2011, in Aultman Hospital at Canton following a brief illness.A daughter of the late Elmer C. and Myrtle E. Fox Murphy, Dixie was born on October 2, 1937 at New Philadelphia. She attended New Philadelphia Schools and at an early age met a young man named Richard Garabrandt. At the time, Richard was enlisted with the United States Navy and they developed a relationship with one another by sharing letters and photographs. Upon his discharge, Richard and Dixie were united in marriage on May 19, 1956.Dixie loved being a homemaker to her husband and son and later found great joy in sharing her life with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her love for children was so natural that she often helped others by babysitting as the need arose. Many of the children she watched and cared for eventually thought of her as a second mother.Spending time in the kitchen was another of Dixie’s passions and she was well known for her cooking and baking skills. Her other hobbies and interests included taking frequent fishing trips to Tappan and Clendening Lakes, and enjoying the scenery and surroundings of trips along country roads.Dixie and Richard attended various congregations throughout the area. She always enjoyed getting involved with the activities of the church and helping to serve the Lord wherever needed. For many summers, she and Richard were involved with serving those in attendance at Camp Trinity, located in Southern Stark County. Most recently they have been attending and serving the Lord at New Pointe Community Church at Dover.The legacy of love she leaves behind will never be forgotten by her husband of 55 years, Richard Garabrandt; her son, Mark (Jody) Garabrandt of Tuscarawas; two granddaughters, Tamra (Brian) Wells of New Philadelphia and Amanda Garabrandt of Tuscarawas; and two great-granddaughters, Aubrie and Katelyn Wells of New Philadelphia.In addition to her parents, Dixie was preceded in death by an infant sister and two brothers, Fred and Bill Murphy.There will be no public visitation or services. Pastor Chad Stutzman will lead private family services at a later date. Inurnment will take place in the Evergreen Burial Park at New Philadelphia. Cremation care will be conducted though Geib’s Tuscarawas Valley Crematory at Dover.