Dixie Rose (McKay) Fried, 87, passed away on March 22, 2025, surrounded by loved ones as she reunited with her late husband, Geoff. Born on December 29, 1937, in Winner, South Dakota, Dixie was a small-town girl who grew up on her family’s farm and developed a deep passion for education, faith, and leadership. After graduating from Winner High School in 1955, she attended the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, where she met Geoff. The couple married in 1957 and shared 66 wonderful years together. Dixie built a successful career in education, earning both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree before transitioning into school administration. After moving to Southern California in 1976, she pivoted to real estate, where she thrived for over 40 years, earning top accolades for her work.
Beyond her professional success, Dixie was deeply committed to her community, co-founding the Los Alamitos Education Foundation and actively contributing to various organizations, including the Rotary Club, the Los Alamitos Youth Center, and P.E.O. International. She is survived by her daughters, Julie and Mary, their families, and three sisters. True to her signature wit, Dixie wished to be remembered as “young and cute,” but she will be most cherished for her generosity, vibrant spirit, and unwavering devotion to those she loved. In her honor, donations may be made to brailleinstitute.org.