Benjamin H. Dixon

Benjamin H. Dixon, 81, of Syracuse, passed away peacefully on November 19, 2025, at home with his daughter and caregiver, Mary Ellen, by his side.

Ben was born on July 3, 1944, to Jesse and Mary Ella Dixon in Clearfield, PA. He served in the U.S. Navy, assigned to the USS Forrestal aircraft carrier. After the Navy, Ben moved to Syracuse and became a truck driver, which he continued until his retirement from Arnold Transportation in 2009.

Ben married Carol (Mackie) O’Neil in 1976, and they renewed their vows on their 25th anniversary in a backyard ceremony with family and friends in attendance.

Ben enjoyed playing solitaire and word games, fishing, and camping, and was a Scoutmaster for many years for Troops 43 and 138. He also loved watching NCIS, CSI, and Chicago Fire.

Ben had a great sense of humor with a healthy dose of sarcasm; he loved to crack jokes and make people laugh. He was also very generous and wouldn’t hesitate to help a friend or give things away to someone in need.

Ben was predeceased by his parents, Jesse and Mary Ella, his wife Carol, his first grandchild, Keith Tillinghast, and his sons Michael Mackie and Joseph Garfield.

Ben is survived by his daughters, Mary Ellen (Ed) Witkowski, Becky Ackerman, Roxie Murray, and Debbie O’Neil, and sons Raymond (Missy) O’Neil and Scott Dixon, along with several grandchildren and great-grandchildren whom he adored.

Ben lived for the last several years at Brick School Terrace and had many friends, especially two special people, Linda Sterling and Amy Rice. The family is grateful to Linda and Amy for the friendship and support (and food!) provided to Ben, especially this past year.

Burial, with military honors, will be at Onondaga County Veterans Memorial Cemetery in a private family service.

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