1931-2026
Dixie Ruth Ray Dumler, 94, passed away peacefully on May 12, 2026, at Auburn Hospital in Auburn, Washington. She was born on December 24, 1931, to Lewis Grady Ray and Ruth Ray.
Dixie married Norman Dumler on July 7, 1951, and together they raised two children, Kimberly Sue and Mark Allen. Throughout her life, she lived in Hoisington, Kansas; Folsom, California; Sun City, Arizona; and several other locations before ultimately settling in Enumclaw, Washington.
Following Norm’s passing in 2002, Dixie was drawn to the Pacific Northwest to be closer to her family. While both of her children lived in the region—Mark and his wife, Tammy, in Enumclaw, and Kim and her husband, Steve, in Baker City, Oregon—the greatest joy of her later years was becoming a grandmother to Kayla and Jeremy. Being their grandmother was the most cherished role of her life. She delighted in volunteering in their elementary classrooms, cheering them on in sports, watching them ride horses, supporting scouting activities, and seeing them grow into young adults.
In her final years, Dixie faced the challenges of dementia. As her condition progressed, she required full‑time care, and the family was fortunate to find an adult care home where she was treated with warmth, dignity, and compassion. She lived there for more than two years, surrounded by caregivers who came to love her as family.
Dixie is survived by her daughter, Kim, and son‑in‑law, Steve; her son, Mark, and daughter‑in‑law, Tammy; and her beloved grandchildren, Kayla and Jeremy. She is also survived by several nieces and nephews. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her.
A graveside service will be held at Hoisington Cemetery in Hoisington, Kansas, on Friday, June 26, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. A luncheon will follow at the home of Jeanie and Shane Rodie in Hoisington.
The family extends heartfelt thanks for the prayers, love, and support offered during this difficult time. Memorials may be made to the Pat Summit Foundation - for the fight against Alzheimer's disease, in care of Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home, PO Box 146, Hoisington, KS 67544.
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