Carol Ann Dixon

Danville, Illinois - Carol Ann Dixon, 74, of Danville peacefully departed this world after a long illness on Sunday, July 30, 2023, surrounded by her family.  

Carol Dixon was born on February 6, 1949 in Danville, Illinois, to the late Paul V. Rouse, Sr. and Anna Hopkins Rouse. Carol was raised in Danville where she attended St. Patrick’s Grade School and graduated with high honors from St. Mary’s Academy in Nauvoo, Illinois, class of 1967, a college preparatory boarding school. She went on to attend Eastern Illinois University in Charleston, Illinois.

Carol was the cherished wife of Allen Dixon, Jr. with whom she shared an unbreakable bond for 47 years of matrimony. Their approach to marriage was as a true partnership, and in addition to raising 11 children together, she supported her husband in numerous small business ventures, including the administration of Leisure Travel Charter Bus Service, which they operated for about 20 years.

In Carol’s actions and words, she carried herself with poise, even in the face of challenges. She possessed a remarkable ability to weather the storms of life with grace, never succumbing to the pressures that arose. She never complained, and instead chose to trust God to guide her through difficult situations with patience and a steadfast resolve.

A testament to her nurturing spirit, Carol was blessed with the role of being a mother to six sons and five daughters; and for a period of time, assumed the role of second mother to a special niece. She embraced this responsibility with selflessness. Her children were her pride and joy, and her unwavering love, encouragement, and example as a praying saint of God, shaped them into the exceptional individuals they are today. When she needed to correct them, her words were carefully chosen, spoken with gentleness and wisdom.

Carol’s love extended beyond her immediate family, as she was a surrogate mother to countless neighborhood children who grew up in the blocks surrounding East Main Street and Bowman Avenue. She was a frequent volunteer at Cannon Elementary School and enjoyed working lunch hours at East Park Elementary School; and on occasion, worked as a substitute teacher for Danville School District 118.

In all things, Carol put God first. She was faithful to Mason Temple Church of God in Christ for over 45 years. Her faith was the foundation of her life. She actively participated in church activities wherever she was needed, including serving as a Sunshine Band and Sunday School teacher, Director of Vacation Bible School, Pastor’s Scholarship Program Director, and Outreach Team member.

In her free time, Carol enjoyed watching “Jeopardy!” and other game shows, doing crossword puzzles, taking road trips, and spending quality time with friends and family—finding joy in life’s simple pleasures. Her children were her greatest source of amusement and she delighted in their hilarious antics. As a mother, she cherished those silly moments that brought tears of laughter to her eyes.

Her sharp mind, quiet and godly demeanor, sweet spirit and understated elegance left a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.

The memory of Carol will forever live on in the hearts of her adoring family: her devoted husband Allen, her beloved children Anthony (Kimberly) Smith, David (RoShema), Vanessa, Timothy, Valerie, Kristina, Kevin, Stephanie (Herbert) Burnett, Natalie (Myo) Campbell and Ronald (Katherine), her grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Surviving Carol are two brothers, Paul V. (Lillian) Rouse, Jr., and Larry (Patricia) Rouse; and, six sisters, Lucy Dumas, Anna Kennel, Nancy Akers, Jane (Cary) Grant, Jean Rouse, and Cynthia Rouse.

She was preceded in death by both parents, a brother, Robert Rouse, her sisters, Marietta Austin and Esther Avery, and a son, Stephen Smith.

A homegoing celebration will be held at New Life Church of Faith, 1419 N. Bowman Avenue Danville, Illinois on Friday, August 11th starting at 11:00 am. A visitation will begin at 10:00 am until the time of the service.

A public viewing will be held on Thursday, August 10th from 5:00 pm until 7:00 pm at Mason Temple Church of God in Christ, 102 Indiana Street in Danville, Illinois. Following visitation, friends are invited to pay tribute and share memories of Carol Dixon during open microphone at a celebration service beginning at 7:00 pm.

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