Dixie Rae Reed's Obituary
Dixie Rae Horath Reed, 84, passed away on Thursday, February 12, 2026, in Decatur, IL.
She was born in Decatur on September 9, 1941, a daughter of the late William Horath and Dorothy Briscoe Horath.
While Dixie was educated and trained as a registered nurse, her real life’s calling was as a mother. She raised seven children and took an active part in the lives of her grandchildren, keeping them all well-fed on her famous fudge, vegetable soup, gravy and homemade biscuits, goulash, and chili. When it was time to relax, she liked to spend her time playing video games.
In addition to her parents, she is preceded by her husband, Kenneth “Gene” Reed in 2013; brothers, James Horath and Tommy Briscoe; sister, Shirley Dean; one granddaughter; one grandson; one great-great-grandson; and three daughters-in-law.
Dixie will be remembered for her strength of will and caring heart by her children, Kenney (Barb), Terry (Pauline), Mark, Rick (Annie) Tina (Bobby), Dixie (Chuck) and Violet (David); many grandchildren; numerous great-grandchildren; several great-great-grandchildren; as well as many more nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
The family would like to extend special thanks to the staff on the 4100 floor at Decatur Memorial Hospital as well as Memorial Home Hospice for the care they gave Dixie when she needed it most.
Visitation for Dixie Reed will be held from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at Graceland/Fairlawn Funeral Home. Graveside service will be held at 10:00 a.m. the following day, Wednesday, February 18, 2026, in Graceland Cemetery. Those attending are asked to meet at the graveside.
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