Dixie Ann Brunson

A hummingbird is fascinating isn’t it? The way it sneaks in so quietly, flys delicately but with purpose, demanding respect, and is curious about everything. Each time I see one it leaves me in awe, vanishing too quickly. That’s how she was. She was fast, furious, beautiful and then she left us too soon.

Dixie Ann Brunson was born February 12, 1949 to Ardath Dixie Murdock and Floyd William Webb in Heber, Utah. She was the oldest of six children; Allen Webb, Danny Webb, Shane Webb, Murray Webb, and Lisa Justet.

She found a lifelong companion and married him in November of 1974. Together Dixie and Neil raised two daughters Stacey Jain and Penny. Dixie opened her arms to Neil’s two daughters; Tina and Marnie and helped raise them as well.

Dixie started a long career at the Utah County Sheriff’s Office in 1974 as a secretary. She paved the way for every female deputy to come. Time and time again she proved a woman could handle the job. Among many other accomplishments she was the 1st female Corrections Officer, first female Corporal, first female Sergeant, and the first female Lieutenant. She was the first recipient of the most prestigious award of the Utah County Sheriff’s Office; The Beth and LeGrand Baker award. She retired from the Utah County Sheriff’s Office in 2000.

That didn’t end her career in law enforcement. She quickly went to work for the Santaquin City Police Department. Again, she showed them what she was made of. She had a firm but gentle way about her. Everyone she came in contact with knew she was the real deal. She often said, “No matter where someone has come from, or what they have done, they were someone’s loved one. “ She always practiced what she preached. This is evident from the various notes and letters from coworkers and ex inmates describing the positive impact she had on their lives.

She was an inspiration to her children; Staci Brunson (Teresa Cardall) and Penny (Jeff Thompson), her grandchildren Noelle Bingham , Nathan Windley, Kloe Lindhardt and Rhyle Thompson and many, many friends. She taught us that you are your only limitation. She taught us to be brave, strong, compassionate, and honest. We have tried to pass this on to her great grandchildren Shawn, Jaymeson, Bohdi, Lilly and Liam.

Today there was a sweet reunion in Heaven. I am sure that her daughter Staci Jain was there to show her the ropes. Her Daddy was getting the jeep all fired up for a ride, Her brother Murray waiting for a long overdue hug and her Momma, anxiously waiting to hear Dixie say all the things she has tried to say for so long.

Alzheimer’s took her mind, and robbed us of precious time but it can’t take the memories we made with her. We won’t forget her laugh or how she would say funny things when she was mad.

Momma you will be missed terribly. I’ll think of you each time I see a hummingbird and remember how much you loved them and us.

Those who love her the most would like to thank Dixie Hospice and her nurses; Lil, Kilee, and Sierra for their help and support.

If you would like to honor Dixie, a celebration will be held July 10th at 6 p.m. at her daughter’s residence 139 S. 2800 E Spanish Fork Utah.