Dixie Leigh Cooley

Dixie Leigh (Iler) Cooley, born on September 24, 1955, in Steubenville, Ohio, left this world on July 10, 2026, at the age of 70, due to Nursing home Neglect. 

She could often be found swaying to the sounds of her beloved record player or popping in 8-tracks, her laughter spilling as Loretta Lynn’s songs became the soundtrack to living room dance sessions.

She became the heart and humor of every room, never shying from a little friendly mischief. Affectionately regarded as a “spit fire” by those lucky enough to cross her path, Dixie’s knack for joking and teasing was legendary.

 She was delighted in puzzles, enjoyed bingo, her enthusiasm for cowboy western movies was matched only by her love for horses, a passion that linked her to the wild freedom of their spirit.

Faith, family, and food defined her joys. Dixie cherished her spiritual home at Rush Run Community Chapel, where her joyful voice rose in hymns.  She poured love into her baking and earned proud distinction by her daughters “tin Nut roll maker of the year,” bringing forth treats that became tradition, savored by her children.

She is lovingly survived by her daughters, Carrie Keener of Mingo Jct., and Andrea Keener of Cadiz, five grandchildren Dylan King, Branden King both of Scio, Wyatt Brown of Mingo Jct., Jase King and Koltyn King of Cadiz, Madison Bishop of Magnolia, one great grandson Dalton King of Carrollton, and great granddaughter Amiyah King.

She was greeted in eternity by her beloved parents, William and Hilda (Nation) Iler, her cherished daughter Cora Cracraft and son-in-law Raymond Cracraft, her siblings Carlie Iler, Russel Iler, James Iler, and her sister Loraine Vincenzo. 

Dixie’s journey will be honored at a visitation on Thursday, July 16, from 4:00 to 8:00 pm at Schuetz Funeral Home, 235 Clifton Ave., Mingo Junction, OH. A funeral service celebrating her remarkable life will take place on Friday, July 17, at 11:00 am, also at Schuetz Funeral Home.

To leave a condolence visit www.schuetzfuneralhome.com