Carolyn Dixon passed away peacefully on the evening of April 12th, 2026, at the age of 87, in Rio Rancho, NM. Carolyn lived a beautiful, full life rooted in love, strength, intelligence, and devotion to her family.

Carolyn was born to Harry E. Mottley Sr. and Thelma Catherine (Garrett) Mottley, on October 21, 1938, in Farmville, Virginia where she was raised. Carolyn was a remarkable woman from the very beginning. She attended Longwood Women's Seminary in Virginia, where she served as president of her graduating class. That early leadership reflected the intelligence, determination, and character that would define her life.

She went on to attend the University of New Mexico, where she graduated dean's list in Business Administration degree in accounting, as the only female in her class. It was there, in riflery class of all places, that she met the love of her life, Wesley. They became engaged her junior year of college. Their story together would carry them across states and countries, through seasons of work, family, and home-building, always side by side.

Carolyn began her professional career in Washington D.C., where she became the second female accountant-auditor hired at the General Accounting Office, at a time when women were still breaking barriers in the profession. That achievement spoke to her courage, capability, and quiet trailblazing spirit. It was a role she earned through hard work and talent, and it remains an extraordinary part of her legacy.

Life opened new doors for both Carolyn and Wesley when the Army drafted and stationed Wesley in Washington D.C. When he learned he was being stationed in Verona, Italy, he asked Carolyn to wait for him. She very matter-of-factly told him she would not - if he wanted to get married it would be now or never. They promptly wed in Washington D.C., beginning a lifelong journey together. In Verona, Italy, they welcomed their first child, daughter Terri Lynn. Then, after returning to the states, their son, Ernest Newell, was born in Santa Fe, New Mexico.

From Santa Fe, Carolyn and Wesley built a home and moved to Mesilla, New Mexico, to be closer to Wesley's family, where they spent the bulk of their lives. There, they created not just a home, but a life, caring for their multi-acre property with pecan orchards, managing many rentals, and building something lasting through steady work and shared purpose. Alongside Wesley, Carolyn ran a pharmacy and coin shop business for many years, contributing not only as his wife, but as his trusted partner. She operated her own accounting business for small businesses and individuals. She dutifully served as a volunteer for several local organizations, sharing her love for Mesilla, and continued to put magazine covers to shame with her show-stopping rose beds and garden. All the while, she continued to utilize her accounting degree in other various ways, such as successfully investing in the stock market.

In 2016, Carolyn and Wesley moved to Rio Rancho to be closer to their grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who brought her so much happiness. What mattered most to Carolyn was the people she loved.

Carolyn will be remembered for her intelligence, her strength, her devotion to family, and the steady, faithful way she lived her life. She helped build a family, a home, and a legacy that will continue long after her passing. Her life was one of substance and grace, and those who knew her were better for it.

She will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever carried in the hearts of all who loved her.

She leaves behind many beloved family members: her husband of 65 years, Ernest "Wesley" Dixon; her two children, daughter, Terri Lynn Dixon and son, Ernest Newell Dixon; her four grandchildren, Kristen Natharius, Pamela Sego, Benjamin Natharius, and Annalisa Dixon; her eight great-grandchildren, Alexander Robinson, JohnDavid Gonzales, Leif Sego, Bjorn Sego, Gunnar Sego, Bellossom Carr, Elizabeth Natharius, and Skylar Natharius; and numerous nieces and nephews. Carolyn was preceded in death by her three brothers, Harry E. Mottley Jr., James V. Mottley, and Robert A. Mottley.

Her family was one of her greatest joys, and the love she gave them will remain with them always.

In lieu of funeral services, and in honor of Carolyn's character, we invite you to please privately celebrate Carolyn's memory in your own ways or by donating to a charity of your choice. While there will be no traditional funeral services, a private family gathering will be held at a later date. Thank you for your support and understanding during this time.

French Funerals & Cremations, Albuquerque NM, is in charge of all arrangements.