Elmer Eugene Dillard's Obituary
In Loving Memory of Gene Dillard
(Elmer Eugene Dillard 9/11/25 age 90)
Born November 10, 1934, in Fayetteville, Arkansas, of West Fork, Arkansas, to Buster and Pearl Black Dillard, Gene lived a life marked by devotion to family, hard work, and a deep love for the outdoors.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Shirley Boles Dillard, his parents, and his sisters Betty Baugus and Dorothy Sheppard.
Gene graduated from Fayetteville High School in 1954 and soon after married his high school sweetheart, Shirley. Together, they built a life filled with love and shared passions.
He dedicated 38 years of service as a line crew foreman at SWEPCO Electric, where his leadership and work ethic earned the respect of many.
Gene’s greatest joy came from spending time in nature. He was an avid deer hunter in Arkansas and cherished his elk hunting trips to Colorado. A proud Razorback fan, Gene rarely missed a football, basketball, or baseball game, cheering on his team with unwavering enthusiasm.
He is survived by his daughter, Vicki Brown of Little Rock; his son, Mike Dillard (and wife Sandy) of West Fork; and two grandsons, Mitch Dillard (“Tiger”) and Gavin Dillard (“Lil Dude”), who brought immense pride and happiness to his life.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the exceptional doctors and nurses at Washington Regional Hospital, especially those on the 3rd floor Cardiology Unit, for their compassionate care. Special thanks also to the dedicated staff at the William Walker Hospice Center for their kindness and support during Gene’s final days.
Gene will be remembered for his strength, his love of family, and the legacy of warmth and laughter he leaves behind.
A private family burial will take place on a future date.
To place an online tribute, please visit www.bernafuneralhomes.com
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