Celebrating the life of
Janet Barnett Dixon
August 13, 1931 - September 18, 2026
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Janet Barnett Dixon, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, friend, and treasured matriarch of her family.
Born in Birmingham, Alabama, to James and Margaret Barnett, Janet embodied the very best of Southern grace throughout her life. To those who knew her, she was truly an angel on earth. She possessed a rare combination of generosity, elegance, and warmth that made everyone around her feel loved and welcome.
Janet attended the University of Georgia, where she was a member of Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority and began her lifelong love of the Georgia Bulldogs—and of sports in general. An accomplished athlete herself, Janet played basketball, tennis, and golf. She won the Savannah Golf Club Women’s Club Championship twice, in 1960 and 1964, and proudly achieved every golfer’s dream there: a hole-in-one.
Janet shared 58 years of marriage with her beloved husband, Merritt, before his passing. Together, they built an extraordinary life filled with family, friendship, and adventure. They traveled the world and shared countless unforgettable experiences, including crossing the Atlantic aboard the Concorde.
She was deeply involved in her community and was an active member of numerous clubs and organizations in Savannah, including the Trustees’ Garden Club and Colonial Dames of America, and served as Directress of the Telfair Women’s Hospital. Janet will also be remembered as an incredible cook, and some of her family and friends’ most cherished memories were made gathered around her table. Delivering her homemade bread each week was one of her many love languages—a simple gesture that perfectly reflected the way she cared for others.
She is survived by her children: Sandy (Kim), and their children, Leary (Ruffin) and Quint (Lauren); Lysa, and her children, Mikey, Drew (Stefanie), and Happy; and Jim, and his son, JB; as well as many beloved great-grandchildren, cousins, nieces, and nephews.
Janet had a remarkable way of making the world around her brighter, more beautiful, and more joyful. Her love for others will live on through the family and friends whose lives she touched. She will be deeply missed by everyone fortunate enough to have known and loved her.
A graveside service will be held at 11:00a.m. on Friday, September 25, at Bonaventure Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to Hospice Savannah, 1352 Eisenhower Drive, Savannah, Georgia 31406.
Oh Sandy and Jim I am so very sorry to see this but I know she's at peace now and in the arms of the One who loves her most. She was one of the most beautiful gracious ladies I've ever had the privilege to know. I'm praying for the repose of her soul and strength and comfort for y'all.
- Patti Ward Neidlinger, Tybee Island, Ga
Dear Sandy, Kim, and Jim, Debbie and I send our deepest condolences to you and your family today. Janet was a true Southern Lady in every sense of the word and deeply loved by everyone who knew her. In your grief and loss, remember the words that Jesus spoke in the Sermon on the Mount: “Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.” With love and prayers, David and Debbie
- DAVID CARSON, SAVANNAH, GA
Judy and I were so moved by the beautiful tribute to your mother. She was such a bright light and her legacy will live on through her family.
- Donna Eichholz, Savannah, GA
Lysa what a blessing it was to care for your mother she had a smile that would light up the room she was so beautiful inside and out. My thoughts and prayers are with you Lysa and your family I know your Mom has already heard our Father say “well done my faithful servant” and her new life has just began. Love you much Mya
- Mya D Cape, Springfield, Georgia
She was a beautiful shining light. My sincere condolences.
- Sean Hayden, Savannah, GA
I'm so sorry for the loss of your mama, Lysa. Janet was truly a gracious, kind and true southern lady. Her talents of entertaining, creating beautiful homes, delicious meals and the most elegant style. You my dear friend of 50+ years I had the pleasure of knowing your mother and father. What amazing folks they were in all facets of living. Your mama loved you so much and was so fortunate to have you by her side during her decline. You made all her favorite dishes, took her out for lunches and made sure she was dressed beautifully. I saw those big smiles on her face. I have been with you through the past few years and know all the care and love you gave her. God Speed Janet, you will be missed but know you are home in the loving arms of our savior. Lysa, I lift you up in prayer for comfort and peace. Love you always Lysa.
- Stacy Sumner Jesso, Washington , NC
Your Mom was a kind and gracious woman. She will be missed by many. Death is hard for the ones left behind. I hope the wonderful memories and love of family and friends sustain you through this most difficult time. Tootie
- Tootie Grady Phillips, Savannah, Ga
A beautiful tribute to Janet who was a beautiful joyful fun-loving southern lady I have known since childhood... she had that beautiful smile and joy till the very end kept there by the loving care of her beloved Lchosen caregiver, Lysa... love and peace, dear Janet
- Julia McIntosh, Savannah, Georgia
She was truly a beautiful and kind lady
- Pamela Macchio, Ellabell, Ga
Janet volunteered as a pink lady in the operating room at Saint Josephs.She would answer the phone,take messages and help out where she was needed.She was kind to all staff and patients.Sympathy to her family at this sad time. Carolyn Emerick
- CAROLYN EMERICK, SAVANNAH, Georgia
Beautiful picture of your mother. A truly beautiful person in my life. I was fortunate enough to be a member of a prayer group with her. What a extraordinary person!
- Comer V Meadows, TYBEE ISLAND, GA
Services under the direction of:
Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
912-352-7200
- Graveside Service
- 11:00 a.m. on Fri, September 25, 2026
- Bonaventure Cemetery
-
330 Bonaventure Road (map)
Savannah GA 31404 - 912-651-6843
