Gary Dixon, 70, passed away peacefully on August 14, 2026 at his home surrounded by the love of his family.
Gary was a devoted husband, loving father, proud veteran, and dedicated public servant. He proudly served his country in the United States Army and later retired from the United States Air Force. Following his military service, Gary continued his commitment to serving others through his career as a civil servant.
Gary was known for his larger-than-life personality, his loyalty, his keen sense of humor, and his ability to make friends wherever he went. He had a natural way of drawing people toward him, and those fortunate enough to know him will remember his warmth, humor, generosity, and unmistakable presence.
Gary went by the moniker “Travelin’ Man” as his work frequently took him all over the world. He managed to travel to more than 30 different states and 6 different continents. He experienced life in places as high energy as Hong Kong, as obscure as tiny Diego Garcia, as historic as Italy, as mystical as Japan, as chilling as Iceland and as sweltering as several locations within the Middle East.
Gary’s work and work ethic were the catalyst that allowed him to become a highly respected & desired member on any team on which he was assigned. He was instrumental to the success of many missions due to his “can do” attitude and ingenuity. Often, he selflessly put himself in harm’s way, making 13 full deployment cruises on aircraft carriers, and being deployed several different times within the war-torn areas of Afghanistan and Iraq. His mind was always focused on mission success as he worked tirelessly to keep the jets in the air.
Gary enjoyed spending time with his friends. As a Master Mason, he was a member of Orange Park Lodge #267. He was also a member of the Kirby-Smith Camp #1209 Sons of Confederate Veterans. But his favorite moments were spent gathering with those he loved at the VFW, the Fleet Reserve, the American Legion, and even Dunkin’ Donuts, just listening to music and sharing stories, laughter, and good times. He valued the friendships he made throughout his life and considered many of those friends family.
Above all, Gary treasured his family. He was a loving and devoted husband of 46 years to his wife, Teresa, and a proud father to his four daughters, Christina Cosat, (Chris), Angela Mikell, Amanda Polk, (Chris), and Valerie Yackel (Rob). His girls were the center of his life, and he took great pride in the women they became. It is also noteworthy to mention that in addition to raising his daughters, Gary opened his heart and home to both his nephew, Jonathan Dixon and his grandson, Todd Dixon and helped mold them into the men they have become.
Gary leaves behind his girls, in addition to 14 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren. Also 1 brother, Terry, (Anna), numerous cousins, 2 nephews and a niece. He was preceded in death by his parents, Allen and Arlene Dixon and younger brother, Johnny.
Gary’s legacy of service, friendship, laughter, and love will be deeply missed by his family, friends, fellow veterans, and all those whose lives he touched.
Though he is no longer with us, the memories of Gary’s big personality, generous spirit, and love for the people around him will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.
Rest in peace, Gary. You will never be forgotten.
A funeral service will be held in the Broadus-Raines Chapel on Saturday, August 22, 2026 at 11:00am. The family will receive friends beginning at 10:30am. Burial will follow at Hickory Grove Cemetery. Please sign the family’s online guestbook at www.broadusraines.com. Arrangements are under the care of Broadus-Raines Funeral Home, 501 Spring St., Green Cove Springs, FL 32043. (904) 284-4000.
