Dixie Cook

Dixie Lee Cook (née Wilkes), age 90, passed away peacefully on July 10, 2025, in Cape Girardeau, Missouri. Born on March 3, 1935, in Riceville, Iowa, Dixie lived a life marked by dedication to education, a passion for travel, and a deep love for her family. Dixie pursued her academic goals with determination and excellence. Her early education (k-8) started in a tiny one room schoolhouse (The David School) in Northern Iowa followed by her High School Diploma from Riceville, Iowa . She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from Upper Iowa University with majors in Education, English, and Reading. She later completed her Master's degree in Gifted Education at Southeast Missouri State University. Her commitment to learning laid the foundation for a remarkable career that would touch countless lives. As an educator, Dixie was a pioneer in gifted education. She developed an exemplary gifted program at Cape Central Junior High School that gained statewide recognition and was recommended as the model for other schools across Missouri. Her innovative approach and unwavering commitment to student success made her a respected leader in the field. Her influence extended beyond the classroom. Dixie was selected to join the Dorothy Sisk delegation to Russia, where she collaborated with directors and teachers in Moscow and Novosibirsk. She also spent time in Budapest exchanging ideas with educators and administrators, furthering international dialogue on gifted education. One of the most tangible measures of her impact was her extraordinary record as a Knowledge Master coach. Under her guidance, her students achieved first place in the state of Missouri an astounding 14 times and claimed national first place honors four times-an achievement that speaks volumes about her mentorship and leadership. Dixie's contributions were recognized through numerous accolades. In 1990, she was named "Most Influential Teacher" by the University of Missouri. In 1994, she was honored with the Mercedes Smith Scholarship Award from the Gifted Association of Missouri and inclusion in "Who's Who Among America's Teachers" She also served as a speaker for the Missouri State Teachers Association, sharing her insights and inspiring fellow educators across the state. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Dixie embraced life with enthusiasm and curiosity. She loved to travel and proudly visited all 50 states. Her journeys took her abroad both for pleasure and professional enrichment-a testament to her adventurous spirit and lifelong love of learning. At home, Dixie found joy in gardening, sewing, knitting, crocheting, playing the organ, and bird watching. Bob and Dixie served as Presidents for Missouri Square & Round Dancers, traveling nationwide to represent Missouri. These hobbies reflected her creativity and appreciation for beauty in everyday life. Dixie was deeply devoted to her family. She is survived by her brothers, Milo Wilkes, Lyle (Barb) Wilkes; sister-in-laws, Joanne Wilkes, Margaret Cook, Judith Ripon; son, Rolland (Denise) Cook of Wytheville, Virginia; daughters, Julene (Edward) Thomas of Kokomo, Indiana and Lorene (Linard) Crites of Sedgewickville, Missouri; grandchildren, Phillip Lance Cook, Tonia (Chris) Kitts, Elizabeth (Julio) Ponce, Andrew (Starlet) Thomas, Kayla (Chris) Viars, Tyler Heafner; and many great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Dr. Robert Cook; parents, Ralph and Bernice Wilkes; brothers, Quentin Wilkes and Mayo Wilkes; sister-in-law, Judy Wilkes; and special friend, Dr. Charles Clark. Dixie Lee Cook leaves behind a legacy of educational excellence, boundless curiosity, and enduring love for family. May her memory bring comfort to those who knew her and inspiration to those who follow in her footsteps. A Memorial Service will be held on August 31, 2025 at Cornerstone Methodist Church, 308 Woodland Avenue, Riceville, Iowa. Interment will immediately follow at Riverside Cemetery, Riceville, Iowa. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Michael J. Fox Foundation. Online condolences may be made at www.fordandsonsfuneralhome.com Ford & Sons Funeral Home in Cape Girardeau, Missouri is in charge of arrangements.

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Dixie Cook

March 3, 1935 - July 10, 2025