Dixie Lee (George) Shirk, 81 of Essex, Maryland, and formerly of Petersburg passed away on Feb. 22, 2026, at Citizens Care Center in Havre De Grace, Maryland.
She was born on Feb. 16, 1945, in Petersburg and was a daughter of the late Edward William George and Bessie Autumn (Hall) George.
Mrs. Shirk was an extraordinary woman and the steadfast rock of her family. Quietly and lovingly, she worked behind the scenes to keep everything together, rarely seeking praise or recognition for all she did. She was a devoted and supportive mother who made sure her family was cared for — with clean clothes, warm meals, and whatever else was needed — often sacrificing her own comfort to provide for those she loved.
She was a loving and faithful wife for 61 years, as well as a cherished daughter and sister. She was truly the wind beneath the family’s wings, guiding them with her strength, faith, and unwavering love. She made certain her family was rooted in church and knew the Lord.
Today, the family finds comfort in knowing she is at peace, reunited with loved ones and rejoicing in the presence of the Heavenly Father, surrounded by the joy and everlasting love she so deeply believed in.
Her husband, Dennis R. Shirk, Sr. preceded her in death on March 22, 2025.
Surviving are two daughters, Dana Jackson and husband, Evans of St. Pauls, North Carolina, and Tonya Ours and husband, Melvin of Rough Run; two sons, Dennis Shirk, Jr. and wife, Katie of Canandaigua, New York, and Derek Shirk of Rosedale, Maryland; four grandchildren, Megan Willis of St. Pauls, North Carolina, Jordan Ketterman of Rough Run and Dennis Shirk, III, and Ryan Shirk, both of Canandaigua, New York; two sisters, Shirley Ebarb of Petersburg and Margie Self of Winchester, Virginia; and several nieces and nephews.
She was also preceded in death by three brothers, Paul Victor George, Wayne George and Rocky George; and a sister, Nancy Self.
Graveside services will be conducted at 2 p.m. on Saturday at North Fork Memorial Cemetery in Riverton with Pastor Jim Thompkins officiating. Burial will follow.
Arrangements are by Schaeffer Funeral Home in Petersburg.
