Obituary of John B. Dillard

John “Johnny B” Dillard, 78, of Dowagiac, passed away at Memorial Hospital in South Bend on August 26, 2022 with his family by his side.

John was born in Rolling Fork, Mississippi, on December 31, 1943, to his loving parents, Albert and Alice (Robinson) Dillard.

After graduating high school John had an opportunity to play collegiate football for Paul Quin College in Texas. He was a phenomenal athlete, but what was more impressive was the way he humbly carried himself.

In his 78 years, Johnny B set the bar as to what it meant to be a hardworking, caring, selfless man, who knew how to make others feel comfortable and at ease with his presence. If one was fortunate enough to share conversation with him, they may not be able to get a word in because he loved sharing stories from his past, giving helpful advice, or providing guidance if needed.

Although he spent most of his years in Michigan, the southern values and traditional way of life he learned while living in Mississippi stayed with him until the day he passed. He knew the value behind hard work and providing for those he loved. Family was at the core of his heart from the very beginning. He was raised with both of his parents and had six siblings who meant the world to him. John never lost touch with any of his family members over the years and loved calling to chat with them. He loved his nieces and nephews dearly and never missed an opportunity to talk a little trash to them.

John worked as an inspector for Tyler’s in Niles, MI for over 40 years. In his free time he loved fishing, playing softball, grilling out, and dancing. He had a knack for remembering everybody’s birthday, he might not have remembered their name, but he knew when they were born. Since he had a hard time with names, he gave everyone a nickname, which was part of why people loved him. Johnny B’s name, memory, and legacy will be carried on in the thoughts & hearts of his family and friends.

John is preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Alice (Robinson) Dillard; his wife Barbara Jean; son, Paul Wilson; siblings, Hayes Dillard, Luella Collins, Albert Dillard Jr., Earchlene Bennett, and Melvin Dillard.

He is survived by his sister, Laura Williamson of Dowagiac, MI, step-children, grandchildren, and many nieces, nephews, extended family & an entire community of friends.

A special thank you to Willie McKnight, Roxane Poole, George Bennett Jr., & Rodney Dillard Sr. for the love and care they provided for John over the years.

A Celebration of Life for John will take place on Friday, September 9, 2022, at Brown Funeral Home and Cremation Services. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. with services beginning at 12:00 p.m. Immediately following the funeral, John will be laid to rest at Riverside Cemetery in Dowagiac.

Per the family’s wishes, memorial contributions may be made to Brown Funeral Home & Cremation Services.

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