Belfast-born artist and designer Ronald Dixon left his mark on hundreds of churches across his adopted home of the United States.
Described as a “prolific designer, fine artist, and craftsman”, his work with stained glass, mosaics and furnishings was recognised by organisations including the Interfaith Forum on Religion Art & Architecture, the Stained Glass Association of America, and the Catholic Art Institute.
Mr Dixon, who died aged 85 on June 17, was born on Good Friday 1941 in Befast and earned a fine arts degree from the city’s College of Art before emigrating to America at the age of 24.
He built a career in stained glass and the ecclesiastical arts, working for Hopcroft Studio and Dixon Studio, among others.
“A true polymath, capable in multiple disciplines, his career went off on a variety of tangents, including technical design and print production positions at Hallmark Corporation, playing accordion in a Greek restaurant, and opening his own fine dining establishment,” his obituary read.
“Avocations included starting to restore old Jaguars but never finishing, playing a variety of musical instruments, and sitting by one of six fireplaces at his historic home in Staunton (Virginia).
“He is survived by Annie, his wife of 36 years, who managed to keep his professional talents focused on the liturgical arts.
“She was his steady partner in marriage, business, and the visual arts, and later his constant caregiver and the insurance provider’s torment during his illness.”
Mr Dixon, who suffered from the rare disease aHUS, is also survived by daughters Moyanne and Shauna, two grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, and his brothers David and Ken and family circle.
He was predeceased by his parents Davey and Jean.
His funeral took place at St Francis of Assisi Church in Staunton, Virginia on June 29.
** The Irish News publishes a selection of readers’ obituaries each Saturday. Families or friends are invited to send in accounts of anyone they feel has made a contribution to their community or simply led an interesting or notable life. Call Aeneas Bonner on 028 9040 8360 or email a.bonner@irishnews.com.