Dr. Clinton H. Dixon

It is with heartfelt sorrow that we announce the passing of Dr. Clinton H. Dixon, who departed this life on July 30, 2025. A pillar of strength, wisdom, and humility, Dr. Dixon was admired not only for his academic contributions but also for his kindness and integrity. His legacy will live on in the lives he touched both inside and outside the classroom. Our sincere condolences to the family and friends. 

Every good formula starts with a foundation - principles, precision, and passion.  Dr. Clinton H. Dixon, a beloved retired science professor, built a life rooted in these very elements.  With a mind committed to discovery and a heart devoted to generations of students, Dr. Dixon spent his life pursuing knowledge, championing education, and advancing humanity through the lens of science.  

Dr. Clinton Howard Dixon was born on Novenber6, 1939, to the late Mr. and Mrs. Grady (Georgia) Dixon in Milledgeville, Baldwin County Georgia.   The youngest of three children, he was preceded in death by his brother, Mr. Robert Dixon.  

Dr. Dixon's academic journey began early.  After graduating from Carver High School in 1955 at the age of fifteen, he enrolled at Fort Valley State College, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Zoology.   He went on to receive a Master of Science in Biology from Atlanta University.  His passion for education and research led him to further studies at the University of Wisconsin and Carleton College before earning his Ph.D. in Zoology from Oklahoma State University.  

Dr. Dixon's professional journey was expansive and distinguished.  He served in various academic and research roles, including Laboratory teaching Assistant at Morehouse College, Graduate Assistant at the National Science Foundation, and teaching positions at the University of Wisconsin and Oklahoma State University.  Eventually, he returned to his alma mater -- Fort Valley State University --where he served with distinction as Instructor, Assistant Professor, Associate Professor, Professor, and ultimately, Head of the Department of Biology.  He taught for five years between 1963 and 1968 prior to pursuing his doctorate, and from 1972, post doctorate, until his retirement in 2005, continuing to contribute to the university until 2007.

A pioneer in science education and research, Dr. Dixon secured numerous grants and led groundbreaking programs, including the Phelps-Stokes Fund Project surveying healthcare needs in Taylor and Peach Counties;  the Robert Wood Johnson Health Science Program via the Medical College of Georgia;  the Georgia State University;  the FVSC-MCG Pipeline Collaborative Program with Middle Georgia Schools; and the MARS Program, sponsored by the National Institutes of Health.  He also conducted research at Argonne National Laboratory and Oak Ridge National Laboratory.  

Dr. Dixon was also a devoted family man.  He and his wife, Dr. Virginia J. Dixon, shared more than 60 years of love and partnership.  Married on September 9, 1964, they were blessed with three children.  Together, the Dixons have made and indelible mark on their community--he in higher education and she as an educator and administrator in the Peach County School System.  They were respected pillars of the Fort Valley community and loved by all who knew them.  

Dr. Dixon was a faithful member of St. Luke Episcopal Church, where he served as Junior Warden in the Vestry.  Even as his health declined, he remained spiritually grounded and supportive of the church's mission.  

Dr. Clinton H. Dixon departed this life on July 30, 2025, at the age of 85, after and extended illness.  He leaves to cherish his memory his loving and devoted wife of 60 years, Dr. Virginia J. Dixon; their children, Dr. Dázon Dixon-Diallo, Chandra Dixon Thomas, M.A., and Dr. Anthony Dixon; son-in-law Bruce Thomas; grandsons, Bruce Thomas II, Brach Thomas, Joshua Satchell, and Jaire E. Dixon; great-granddaughter, Kaylei Thomas; sister, Mary Bernice Smith; and a host of nieces, nephews, in-laws, fraternity brothers, mentees, colleagues, relatives, and friends.  

Dr. Dixon's formula for life was one of unwavering excellence, boundless generosity, and transformative leadership.  His legacy will continue to shape lives for generations to come.