Andy Dillard

**In Loving Memory of Andy Carl Dillard**

Andy Carl Dillard was born on December 30, 1945, in Hurtsboro, Alabama, to Major Dillard and Emma Lois Dillard (Robinson). His journey took him from the warmth of his hometown to Gary, Indiana, where he graduated from Tolleston High School in 1964. With ambition and determination, he pursued higher education at Bishop College in Dallas, Texas. It was there that he met the love of his life, Lillian Marie Grant. Their love story spanned 57 beautiful years and brought them two beloved children, Keesha Nichelle Dillard and Anthony Carl Dillard.

After earning his degree in Biology, Andy was drafted into the U.S. Army and served at Fort Ord Military Base in Monterey, California. Following his honorable service, he embarked on a remarkable 39-year career with the Southland Corporation, now known as 7-Eleven Inc. Through dedication and perseverance, he rose through the ranks to become an International Managing Director before retiring in 2014.

Andy was a devoted husband, father, and friend. With a heart as big as his smile, he never met a stranger. Whether closing a deal in the boardroom or gathering loved ones for a celebration, he had a rare gift for bringing people together. He instilled in his children the values of hard work, honesty, and integrity-lessons that will forever be his legacy. His marriage to Lillian was built on love, laughter, and unwavering support; she was his best friend and greatest joy.

Andy lived an extraordinary life, touching countless hearts along the way. Though he is no longer with us, his warmth, wisdom, and love will remain in the memories of those fortunate enough to have known him.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 57 years, Lillian Dillard (Grant); his children, Keesha Dillard and Anthony Dillard (Ashley); his brother Major Dillard (Denise); and his cherished nieces, nephews, and extended family members, including Tyra Heffner, Kimberley Bonner, Erin Dillard, Ederick Dillard, Lorenzo Dillard, Jayden Dykstra, and Deshaun Dillard. He was preceded in death by his siblings Rosetta Heffner, Eddie Dillard, and Lorenzo Dillard.

A memorial service celebrating Andy's life is being planned, with details to be shared soon. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, a cause dear to Andy's heart. Donations can be made through the following link:

[https://search.yahoo.com/yhs/search?hspart=firearc&hsimp=yhs-lotus&type=1704805639094716&p=st+jude+hospital&q=st+jude+hospital](https://search.yahoo.com/yhs/search?hspart=firearc&hsimp=yhs-lotus&type=1704805639094716&p=st+jude+hospital&q=st+jude+hospital)

Andy Carl Dillard's life was a testament to love, resilience, and the power of human connection. His spirit will forever shine in the lives he touched.