Dr. Dillard Winston Thaxton III, age 82, Bell Buckle, TN died peacefully in his sleep at home, April 9, 2023. He was survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Joy Thaxton.

His father, Rev. D.W. Thaxton II and sister, Muzette Sexton predeceased him. Survivors include his mother, Muzette Thaxton Byars (age 102); his sisters, Nancy Galloway (Jack), Wanda Davis (Mike), Kathy Tyrrell (Steve deceased). From both sides of their family, Dr. Thaxton and Joy had 16 nieces & nephews, 39 great nieces & nephews and 5 great great nieces & nephews.

In 1966, Dr. Thaxton graduated from Southern College of Optometry of Memphis, TN and practiced in Green Hills for 48 years. Dr. Thaxton and Joy loved and appreciated the patients that came to their office.

Dr. Thaxton and Joy enjoyed living in Bell Buckle along with the company of Happi, their Toy Poodle. Through the years at Country Heart Farm, he raised and loved many beagles. They took great pride in caring for lots of Eastern Bluebird boxes on their trail. Riding his old John Deere tractor to plant crops for the wildlife was such a pleasure for him. Many retirement hours were spent relaxing and catching fish from his pond.

Dr. Thaxton’s Quote:

“I don’t want anybody sad, just be happy for the life I got to live.”

A memorial visitation to celebrate Dr. Thaxton’s life with family and friends will be held Saturday afternoon on April 22 from 2:00 to 4:00 at Murfreesboro Funeral Home, 145 Innsbrooke Blvd, Murfreesboro, TN 37128.

Dr. Thaxton personally made this request:

“In lieu of flowers or charitable contributions, everyone take a loved one to lunch or dinner, and celebrate life – it’s beautiful and short.”