Dolores Violet Bixler

Dolores V. Bixler, age 101, of Jonesboro, formerly of Cromberg, CA, came into the arms of Jesus on September 13, 2023, at the Craighead Nursing Center. She was born on December 26, 1921, to the late William and Violet Eagle, in Fort Bragg, CA. Dolores was a graduate of Castle Mount High School and business school in Oakland, CA.

During her early years, she worked as a secretary at the Army Quartermaster’s Depot in Oakland, CA. During the ’50s, Dolores, her husband, and 3 children moved from San Francisco to the rural Sierra Nevada Mountain country in Cromberg.

Later, she owned and managed Long Valley Resort’s store and post office for 30 years. Some of her jobs included managing the store, pumping the gas, selling hunting and fishing licenses, and validating deer and bear remains. In her spare time, she managed 7 rental cabins and raised 3 children until she retired in the early 80’s. She was known for her beautiful flower gardens and gardening, which was her favorite hobby. She also enjoyed the weekly bowling competition. But her favorite pastime was playing and visiting with her grandchildren.

She loved attending Graeagle Community Church close to Cromberg, and she held weekly Bible studies, which were led by her pastor in her home.

In 2012 Dolores relocated to Jonesboro at St. Bernard’s Village to be close to her daughter and family. She loved running the Country Store, meeting with the people, and making Southern friends. While at the Village, she developed Grandma’s Attic, which involved taking in and exchanging donated clothing and housewares. The residents LOVED the atmosphere and friendly fellowship that she provided.

In addition to her parents, Dolores was preceded in death by her husband Larry E. Varner, father of her 3 children, husband Howard Bixler, granddaughter Jamie, and grandson James, and half-brother Stan Braxton.

Those left to cherish her memory are Her daughter Linda (Bill Wood) of Jonesboro; Guy Varner (Cheryl) of Portola, CA, and Joy Petch of Sun Valley, NV. Her Grandchildren: Steve Wood, Sarah Wood Manchester (Jason) of Jonesboro; Jeremy Varner (Darcy) in Connecticut, Gary Varner of Nevada, Julie Varner of Idaho; seven great-grandchildren, nieces, and a host of friends.

In lieu of flowers, please consider memorials to Graeagle Community Church, PO Box 366, Graeagle, CA 96103.