It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Barry Lee Dillard, who left us on August 7, 2025, at the age of 81. Born on October 16, 1943, in Muncie, Indiana to the late Temas and Jama (Gustin) Dillard, Barry lived a life full of love, adventure, and creativity.
Barry graduated from Anderson High School in 1961 and went on to dedicate 30 years of his life to Guide Lamp, where he worked as a forklift driver. A proud U.S. Navy veteran, he served his country for three years exploring the world.
Barry had a passion for many activities. He was an avid hunter, enjoyed archery, dancing, loved strumming his guitar, and had a enjoyment for knowledge that kept him reading his books. Traveling was another of his great joys, and he cherished his trips to the Ohio Renaissance Festival. Barry had a vibrant and spirited personality, which drew him to several organizations, including the Solar Masonic Lodge, The Eagles, and the UAW. He was also involved with the Indiana Sheriff Association and the National Rifle Association. Barry enjoyed sharing his knowledge and love for the outdoors as an instructor at the Fall Creek Valley Conservation Club. His community connections extended to the Moose Lodge, Scottish Rite, and the American Legion, where he built lasting friendships and created cherished memories. Barry adored his beloved Collies, who brought him endless joy into his life.
He leaves behind a legacy of love and laughter, remembered by his wife, Linda (Graves) Dillard, who he would've been married to for 50 years this coming March; children, Dana (Scott) Imel, Shannan (Wayne) Bush and Andy (Stacie) Hannaford; his sister Cheri (Dan) Hogan; his grandchildren Chelsea, Makenzy, Alexis, Logan, Claire, and Coen, as well as his great-grandchildren Heagan, Killian, Soren, Corey, Opal, and Ruby; brother-in-law, Larry (Nancy) Graves.
He is preceded in death by his parents.
Barry will be sorely missed by all who knew him, but we find comfort in knowing that his spirit will live on in the stories shared and the memories held dear by his family and friends.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Bozell Funeral Homes, Brown-Butz-Diedring Chapel, 515 E. 53rd St.,Anderson, IN, 46013.
Online condolences may be shared at: www.bozellfuneralhome.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and condolences can be left on the obituary at the funeral home website.
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Follow this page
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read moreWhat kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read moreWe'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read moreLegacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreThey're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreYou may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read moreThese free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read moreSome basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more