Celebrating Alyce Dixon: A Life Lived with Laughter and Resilience

If, as the saying goes, all the world is a stage, then Alyce Dixon is the headlining comedienne. Today, this spirited woman turns 102 years old, and her journey is filled with humor, resolve, and an indomitable spirit.

The Gift of Laughter

Alyce Dixon, fresh, forward, and undeniably sassy, has found humor invaluable throughout her life. “You’ve got to laugh a little bit,” she often says. Not only has this attitude helped her navigate life’s challenges, but it has also allowed her to connect with the many people she encountered during her long career.

Working as a civilian in requisitions at the Pentagon, she honed her talent for making others laugh. “I was able to buy everything from pencils to airplanes,” she recounts, with a twinkle in her eye. Her jovial nature made her a favorite among the many salesmen she interacted with, providing a bit of lightness in the often serious atmosphere of government work.

A Unique Childhood

Born Alice Lillian Ellis on September 11, 1907, in Boston, Alyce was the third of nine children. She chuckles while recalling her decisive proclamation about motherhood: “I said when I get married I don’t want any children. I’ve done it already.” After relocating with her family to Washington D.C. in 1924, Alyce attended the esteemed Dunbar High School, graduating in 1925.

At 16, she changed the spelling of her name to “Alyce” after seeing actress Alyce Mills in a film. “I thought it was pretty,” she notes. This personalized aspect of her identity showcases her desire for authenticity, a trait that has echoed throughout her life.

A Professional Pathway

After high school, Alyce enrolled at Howard University, but she soon prioritized helping her family over her studies. Taking on roles that included secretary at the Lincoln Theater, she earned $15 a week. Despite her modest means, she was adept at budgeting: $3 went to savings, $5 to her mother, leaving her with just $7 for her personal expenses—an amount that today barely covers a loaf of bread.

Eventually, she secured a job with the Census Bureau, earning a more substantial salary of $105 a month, a significant leap for her time. Reflecting on her earnings, Alyce chuckles, “I never saw $2,000 a year until I was getting ready to retire.”

Navigating Discrimination in the Workplace

Alyce’s career took a significant turn when she began working at the Pentagon in 1940. As a member of a secretarial pool, she faced racial discrimination that was frustrating and disheartening. “I said to one of my friends, ‘Let’s go and talk to Mr. Fred … and ask him what happened,’” she recalled. This assertiveness led to better placements for her and her colleague, exemplifying her resilience in the face of adversity.

In 1943, Alyce joined the Women’s Army Corps (WACs), eager to serve her country while hoping for assistance with her vitiligo, a skin condition she had lived with. Despite her hopes, the Army couldn’t provide a cure, but it did offer her the opportunity to travel and serve.

Adventures and Contributions in the Military

As a writer for the military, Alyce’s humorous anecdotes resonated widely. One of her stories, “The Long and Short of It,” attracted attention far and wide, even drawing correspondence from many short men who found her tale relatable. “I hated short men,” she laughs, reminiscing about the unexpected attention.

Alyce was eventually selected to be part of the 6888th Postal Battalion, tasked with clearing a backlog of mail in London and later France. Her insightful wit shone through in this role, as she navigated the complexities of delivering mail that often came with humorous, yet challenging addresses.

Life Beyond the Military

After leaving the military in December 1945, Alyce returned to the Pentagon, where she continued to work until her retirement in 1972. Although her journey included ups and downs—like a marriage that dissolved over grocery budget disagreements—Alyce remained true to herself.

Living independently until the age of 93, she finally moved into the Washington D.C. VA Medical Center in 2000, where she currently resides as the oldest resident. She also holds the honor of being the last living member of the 6888th Postal Battalion.

A Timeless Perspective

Throughout her long life, Alyce has witnessed monumental moments in history, from the Great Depression to the election of the first Black president, whom she describes as brilliant. “Nobody knows what they are anyhow. It’s a crazy world,” she says, reflecting on the complexities of identity and politics.

Today, as she celebrates her 102nd birthday, Alyce Dixon maintains her remarkable sense of humor and her zest for life. The VA Medical Center is preparing a birthday celebration for her, which she humorously refers to as “Terrorist Day,” reflecting on the events of September 11, 2001, that have intertwined with her personal celebrations.

Alyce’s life story is a testament to resilience, determination, and the power of laughter—a narrative that continues to inspire many.