Dixie L. (George) Shirk

 Dixie Lee (George) Shirk, age 81 of Essex, Maryland and formerly of Petersburg, WV passed away on Sunday, February 22, 2026 at Citizens Care Center in Havre De Grace, MD.

 Dixie was born on February 16, 1945 in Petersburg, WV and was a daughter of the late Edward William George and Bessie Autumn (Hall) George. In addition to her parents, Dixie was preceded in death by her husband, Dennis R. Shirk, Sr. on March 22, 2025;  three brothers, Paul Victor George, Wayne George and Rocky George and one sister Nancy Self.

Dixie is survived by two daughters, Dana Jackson and husband Evans of St. Pauls, NC and Tonya Ours and husband Melvin of Rough Run, WV; two sons, Dennis Shirk, Jr. and wife Katie of Canandaigua, NY and Derek Shirk of Rosedale, MD; four grandchildren, Megan Willis of St. Pauls, NC, Jordan Ketterman of Rough Run, WV, Dennis Shirk III of Canandaigua, NY and Ryan Shirk of Canandaigua, NY; two sisters, Shirley Ebarb of Petersburg, WV and Margie Self of Winchester, VA and several nieces and nephews.

Dixie was an extraordinary woman and the steadfast rock of our family. Quietly and lovingly, she worked behind the scenes to keep everything together, rarely seeking praise or recognition for all she did. She was a devoted and supportive mother who made sure her family was cared for — with clean clothes, warm meals, and whatever else was needed — often sacrificing her own comfort to provide for those she loved.

Dixie was a loving and faithful wife for 61 years, as well as a cherished daughter and sister. She was truly the wind beneath our wings, guiding us with her strength, faith, and unwavering love. She made certain her family was rooted in church and knew the Lord.

Today, we find comfort in knowing she is at peace, reunited with loved ones and rejoicing in the presence of our Heavenly Father, surrounded by the joy and everlasting love she so deeply believed in.

Graveside services will be conducted on Saturday, March 7, 2026 at 2:00 PM at North Fork Memorial Cemetery in Riverton, WV with Pastor Jim Tompkins officiating. Inurnment will follow in the North Fork Memorial Cemetery.

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