Leslie Walker Dixon

Leslie Walker Dixon

Radiant, Vibrant, Innovator and Cherished

Leslie Ann Walker Dixon, a radiant light of vibrancy and positivity, passed away peacefully at home on September 4, 2023, surrounded by the warmth and love of her family. Leslie's presence illuminated each room she entered, breathing life, hope, and boundless potential into every moment.

A viewing will be held from 3:00 – 8:00 pm at Kurtz Memorial Chapel, 65 Old Frankfort Way, Frankfort, IL 60423 on September 15, 2023. A Celebration of Life will take place on September 16th at 2 pm, followed by a Repast at the home of Leslie and Theodore Dixon, 21405 Georgetown Rd, Frankfort, Illinois. Leslie lived her life full of color. Let's honor her by wearing our boldest and brightest attire.

Born on February 20th, 1959, in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, Leslie was the cherished daughter of Dr. Arthur DeWitt Walker, Jr and Dr. Jeanne Eugenia Marani Walker. Leslie’s vibrant and energetic spirit was evident from a young age, and she channeled her zest for life into a remarkable journey of accomplishments.

A life-long (and outstanding scholar), Leslie graduated from Yale University with a Bachelor of Science Cum Laude in Psychology and Business Administration (Yale School of Organization and Management). She further fine-tuned her academic acumen to enhance (complement) her professional career at the Rutgers Business School, where she earned a Master of Business Administration in Finance and completed executive education programs at Columbia Business School, Wharton School University of Pennsylvania, and Trinity University.

Professionally, Leslie was a highly accomplished and respected healthcare executive. Her career spanned over three decades, primarily focusing on government-sponsored programs in managed care. She held pivotal leadership roles at Anthem (Chief Operating Officer), Peach State Health Plan (Chief Operating Officer, Centene), and most recently, as Chief Executive Officer at IlliniCare Health Plan (Centene). Leslie was recognized as a strategic thinker and dynamic leader. Her innovative approach to tackling the toughest challenges was evident in her ability to rejuvenate underperforming health plans and drive market growth. Above all, she prioritized fostering inclusive work cultures and supporting economic advancements by enriching and empowering under-resourced communities across the nation.

Beyond her professional accolades, Leslie was a woman of many passions. She had an insatiable love for fashion, fitness, travel, gardening, and music. Along with her brilliant eye for interior design, Leslie celebrated cultures around the world with her one of a kind art collection of items originating from across the globe. Leslie’s caring nature and desire to uplift others carried over in her everyday interactions, making her an exceptional motivator and a pillar of hope for many.

Leslie’s legacy is carried forward by her cherished daughter, Eugenia Noelle-Lenore Naamon and her memory is honored by her loving husband, Theodore Dixon. She is also survived by family and friends who will forever hold her memory close to their hearts: her sisters, Andrea Walker-Modu (Emmanuel Modu) and Melissa Walker (Christian McBride); her nephew Nkem Modu and niece Amara Modu; her aunt Dr. Retia Walker and cousin JaRee Walker, and cousins Nina Michelle, Mark, Michael and Lisa Plescia, and the many loving supporters, Eugenia’s dad, Dr. Edwin Naamon, Gail Gist (Joe Gist), Cynthia Dixon, Angela Bender (Wayne Bender), Eric Dixon, Philip Dixon (Kasey Taylor), Akosua Agbevam and the Adib family. Leslie’s beloved grand-dog Otis still sleeps on her pillow every night.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites contributions to JAZZ HOUSE KiDS (www.jazzhousekids.org), reflecting Leslie's profound love for music and her unwavering commitment to helping others. For online condolences, please visit https://www.kurtzmemorialchapel.com/obituaries/Leslie-Anne-Dixon?obId=28909376#/obituaryInfo.