Huntingdon, Tenn.–Over the past 20 years, Wilma and Ray Smith have been more than just supporters of The Dixie Carter Performing Arts Center in Huntingdon—they’ve been a part of The Dixie family. So much so, that the family donated $200,000 to the Friends of The Dixie.
The presentation took place earlier this week during a reception at The Dixie.
According to the Dixie personnel, “Ray would walk into The Dixie with his infamous big hat, and it was always clear how much they cared about this place. The Smith family have always been extremely giving, supporting our small venue with annual donations, but it was a complete surprise when they recently presented The Dixie with an incredibly generous gift from Ray’s estate—a $200,000 donation to The Friends of The Dixie.”
The generous contribution is a fantastic way to kick off 2025, and The Dixie couldn’t be more thankful!
As we all know, funding for the Arts is often the first to be cut, and without the unwavering support of our incredible community, places like The Dixie are at risk. If the past few years have shown us anything, it’s that the arts are essential to the human spirit. They connect us, inspire us, and enhance life in ways nothing else can.
A HUGE thank you to the Ray Smith family, and to everyone who makes our community—and the world—better by supporting the arts. 
You, too, can help by:
• Making a donation
• Buying tickets
• Attending an art class
• Sponsoring a performance
• Or simply telling your friends and family about this hidden gem of West Tennessee, where big city entertainment meets small town charm. 
Together, we keep the arts alive and thriving. Thank you for your continued support! 
____
Photo by Teresa Davis Carter