A much-loved James Clay “Jim” Dillard, born on September 29, 1937, in Westminster, Maryland, passed away peacefully on February 15, 2025, in Livingston, Texas.
Jim grew up in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida where he earned his Eagle Scout award. After finishing high school, he went into the Unites States Coast Guard stationed in Cape May, New Jersey from November 1957 to November 1960.
Jim received an honorable discharge as an aviation structural mechanic third class on the 24th of July 1962 after receiving the Coast Guard Good Conduct Medal. After leaving the service, he went to work for the Bell South Telephone Company as an engineer in the Ft. Lauderdale area where he eventually retired.
Jim and his beloved wife Kay were married for 60 years and enjoyed camping, the outdoors, hiking and fishing and gained many friends throughout their journeys.
Jim and Kay volunteered for Pineywoods Baptist Encampment youth retreats in Woodlake, Texas for many years, helping with anything from painting to repairs to building what was needed. They were members of the Escapees RV Club for 26 years where they formed great relationships and long-term friends who they considered as family.
His father Frank Board Dillard, mother Emma Hunter Dillard and sister Julia Rae Dillard Blizzard preceded him. He is survived by his wife Kay V. Warren Dillard of 60 years. Jim was uncle to Larry K. Blizzard Jr., Holli Colleen Blizzard Ratte, Heidi Doreen Blizzard Housman and is also survived by many grand nieces and nephews. He will be lovingly remembered by all.
A memorial service will be held in Jim’s honor on Thursday, February 27, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. at the Providence Baptist Church in Livingston, Texas with Bro. Bob Loban officiating.
Cochran Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements. Please sign our online guestbook at www.cochranfh.com.
