Dixie Lee Tinnell was born July 4, 1930, to Melba and Clyde Tinnell of Council Bluffs, Iowa. She grew up with a large extended family of cousins, aunts, uncles, grandparents, and close friends. Throughout High School at Thomas Jefferson, family & friends saw her involved in social clubs and extracurricular activities. An honor reserved for few; she was chosen by the wrestling team as their Queen.

To our good fortune, Dixie was taken to a car race by her sister, Beverly, where she met a very tall, very imposing, and very smitten Walter. Dixie and Walter G. Romey married on October 19th, 1952. Their marriage was blessed with 2 beloved children, Becky (1953) and Bruce (1957). Dixie and Walt were married 59 adventurous years.

Bowling was a lifelong hobby; she bowled with her husband Walt often. Her mother Melba, Aunt Pearl, sister Bev, and daughter Becky were on a team that enjoyed many years of fierce competition. She threw a hook ball that was so smoothly delivered, you would be hard pressed to hear the ball touch the floor of the lane.

Sunny California called the family to wine country several times throughout the years, meeting extended family for trips to National Parks. One memorable trip to Yosemite saw a black bear in camp helping himself to Walter’s candy. Dixie sprang into action to prevent the kids from getting too close to the foraging bear – She blocked the camper door, arms across the opening, feet firmly planted while the young campers clamored to see the bear.

Dixie’s life was made richer when grandkids arrived, there were ball games of all kinds: baseball, softball, football, golf and volleyball. She loved to watch the kids reach for the stars, and whenever possible, she could be counted on to attend important activities in her grandchildren’s lives. She was a constant and reliable loving presence. Great grandchildren brought an honor she enjoyed – The status of GG. She provided the kids with many hours of time sitting on her lap, reading and visiting. In order to keep her impressive collection of photo galleries and albums up to date, Dixie would contact the parents of her “precious pots” for photo updates.

Everyone that knew Dixie, knew she had an undying love for the Chicago Cubs baseball team.  She traveled to Chicago to see them play with her husband Walt, and most recently with her daughter Becky, granddaughters Amy and Molly, and great grandson Jaxson. Great memories!

Dixie’s devotion to her church was demonstrated by 65 years of attendance and support.  Her church family supported her and she in turn, loved them. Singing, volunteering, circle attendance, and Sunday morning greeting with her smile and warm countenance demonstrated her dedication and gave her much happiness.

Dixie’s life was filled with many happy times and lots of love from family and friends. She loved her Savior Jesus Christ and strived to live a Godly life.

We celebrate her today. Thank you for coming.

Dixie was preceded in death by her parents: Clyde “Dude” & Melba Tinnell; husband of 59 years: Walter G. Romey; sister: Bev Buckingham. She is survived by her children: Rebecca (Bob) Jorgensen, Bruce (Cindy) Romey; grandchildren: Ben (Megan) Romey, Amy Setlak, Molly (Jeff) DeHaan, Katie Romey (Matt Meinhardt); great-grandchildren: Jaxson, Jessica, Jordan, Garrett, Samuel; and a host of other loving family & friends.