In the early morning of January 3, 2022, I peacefully pass away at St Peter’s Hospital in Helena, MT. I was 84 years old at the time of my passing.
I was born on August 7, 1937 in Littlefork, MN to James Briggs and Nellie (Lucus) Briggs. I was the third of four children, two brothers, Pat and Reggie and my sister, Bonnie.
At the age of 7, I moved with my family to Twin Falls, Idaho whereas a 2nd grader I attended school in a small one room school. Every morning first thing was the reading of the Bible and then the Pledge of Allegiance. In those informational years I learned about patriotism and love of country that would last my entire life. I loved reading and history was my favorite subject in school.
When I was in the third grade the small school consolidated with the school in Rathdrum, Idaho and this is where I went to grade school and high school. During this time I made several lifelong friends. In 1953 the family moved to Onley, Montana where I attended Whitefish High School.
On May 1, 1954 I was married to Larry Mackaman in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Larry and I had 3 sons, Jeffery, Corey, and Kevin. In 1960 we moved to Whitefish Montana where I lived until the year 2000. I was employed at Whitefish Extended Care for 12 years. Those were many happy years where I took care of the elderly and I made some wonderful friends among the staff and residents.
I divorced in 1990 and I 2000 I married John Jepson of Townsend, Montana. In the winters John and I would travel south but we always came back to Montana in the summers. John and I eventually landed permanently in East Helena, Montana where I lived out my remaining years. John and I started a magnetic jewelry business and traveled the country selling it at fairs and other town markets. I continued doing this right up to my passing.
I am preceded in death by my parents James and Nellie, my husband John Jepson, my sister Bonnie Smith, my brother Pat Briggs, my son Corey Mackaman, my daughter in law Debbie Olesen Mackaman.
I am survived by my Brother Reggie Briggs and wife Donna, my son Kevin Mackaman, my son Jeffrey Mackaman and wife Joyce, my granddaughter Amber Solberg and husband Mike
Solberg, my great grandson Ashton Solberg and my granddaughter, Makayla Mackaman.
I would like to give a very special thank you to the medical staff and caregivers at St Peter’s Hospital for the wonderful care you all gave me through this difficult time.
A small gathering will be held in the spring for family and close friends. My ashes will be laid to rest next to my husband John in the Deep Creek Cemetery in Townsend, Montana. Please send donations to Samaritans Purse or Tunnels 2 Tower in honor of Dixie.
Service Schedule
Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.
Service Schedule
Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.
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Mary Ann Stai says
We’re so sorry to hear of Dixie’s passing. We both have many fond memories of her from when she was married to Uncle Larry. We also had the pleasure of meeting John when they stopped to see us on their snowbird travels early in their marriage. Love to all the family. Praying God will comfort you as you go through this sad time.
Lloyd & Mary Ann Stai
Ken and Connie Gress says
I was so sorry to hear of Dixie’s death. She was such a good friend and wonderful lady that I had the honor to know for a good portion of my life. We got a good two day visit in this last summer and had such a good time. We talked about so many things and had some good laughs. I am so happy I called her before Christmas and she told me she was in the hospital. RIP dear friend. We will meet again.
Becky Simkins says
Dixie was a good friend to my mom Evonne. Quite often they would visit on my mom and dads deck and laugh for many hours. I also enjoyed seeing Dixie at our family BBQ’s, she brought joy to all who knew her. I am most pleased,
the love and friendship she shared with my mom. May Dixie rest in peace.
Becky Simkins
Evonne Mitton says
I have will miss my good friend and all the laughs we shared when ever we got together. There will be a empty place at our family get gatherings. David and I always had fun with both her and John. She will always be in my thought when I go to do something we did together.
Lia Beck says
I’m so very sorry to hear of Dixie’s passing. I’ve been her dog groomer for many years and always looked forward to grooming Max and seeing Dixie with her warm smile and kind heart.
I pray that Max has a great home to go to. Some day I will see you again Dixie. Until then hug Jesus for me. God be with your family in their time of grieving.
Sharon Warn says
I was very sorry to hear for Dixie’s passing. I really enjoyed seeing her at the library. She was a wonderful person.
Deb Green says
Dixie is missed at church! She was such a kind lady and always willing to help others! She recently made and brought food for my MIL’s funeral reception and now she is gone. Until we meet again!
Marci Turney says
Oh my gosh I am so sorry to hear that Dixie passed. I bought her wonderful jewelry as did many of my friends. Such a blessed soul and heart as well. What happened to her pup? Did she sell her business? If the family could reach out to me and let me know, I would so appreciate it my name is Marci at 406-422-9557