Evelyn N. Dix

Evelyn Nell Dix

February 16, 1947 - June 29, 2026

Evelyn passed away peacefully on Monday, June 29 in Emporia, Kansas at the age of 79. Born on February 16, 1947, the eighth child of twelve, Evelyn lived her life with positivity and committed to her family and work.

Evelyn was an involved grandmother to her grandchildren: Cody Dix (Alexandria), Sidney Smith (Kaleb), Jack Newlin (Payton), David Dix and Alyssa Dix. She enjoyed seeing her great grandchildren Arielle, Brighton and Paisley as well as watching videos and seeing pictures sent to her. Family was a focus for Evelyn. She attended every sporting, musical or school event and rarely missed one of her grandkids special days. She was on the floor doing puzzles, making marble runs and playing board games every minute she could.

Evelyn had two children: Samantha Newlin of Kansas City and Aaron Dix (and wife Tammy) of Emporia. Evelyn was a roommother, Sunday school teacher, 4-H leader, coach, and more, and ridiculously involved with her children. She once made 1700 cookies for the entire school where Samantha taught and rightfully received a standing ovation. Evelyn was famous for her spaghetti and unique ways of making her family both laugh and be embarrassed.

Evelyn had a strong pride for her siblings. Ron (and Gail) Nurnberg, Leona (Sue) Sill, Linda (and Les) Potter, Patricia Henry, Roger Nurnberg, Elizabeth Jane (and Duane) Collins, and Nancy (and Brad) Cain. Two sisters and two brothers preceded her in death: Joanne (and John) Bunk, Robert Eugene (and Sharon) Nurnberg, Judith Thomas and Richard Nurnberg. She loved her parents Robert and Frieda Evelyn who also preceded her in death. While there are too many nieces and nephews to mention, most would be able to tell you of a funny experience they had with Evelyn. She was an aunt who played and interacted with children whenever she could. She attended school in Saffordville, Kansas and graduated from Chase County Community High School.

Evelyn was married to David Dean Dix for over 13 years. They remained close friends and celebrated all life events together until his death in 1997.

There is no way to count the amount of cookies and cakes she decorated for her family, friends and anyone else who got wind of her decorating talent. She also enjoyed painting ceramics and making food for neighbors and family. She was a worker bee, holding many jobs throughout her life including working for a brother and brother-in-law, providing energetic humor in the restaurant industry, and being a dedicated CMA and activities director in the nursing care field. She was also a manager at a couple locations in Emporia and had no trouble keeping people in line.

Evelyn loved K-State football. She attended home and away games with her traveling K-State family for many years. She bled purple and that was the only color in her closet. She pulled her children and grandchildren into this love.

Evelyn’s legacy will be her strong opinions and hilarious comments. She was not afraid to speak her mind. If you met Evelyn, you likely remember her. She shared her energy with so many, could talk to anyone and almost always did. Two of her common sayings are: ‘Don’t sweat the small stuff, and it’s all small stuff’. As well as ‘If you’re not careful, you’ll learn something new every day.’ Those who knew and loved Evelyn can smile remembering their time with her.

A private family service will occur at a later date. Memorials can be made to Hand-In-Hand Hospice at 1000 Lincoln Street, Emporia, KS 66801. Evelyn’s caretakers the last two years were extremely gentle and kind and appreciated and encouraged Evelyn to be herself.