Esker "Bo" Dillehay

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Esker “Bo” Dillehay, 71, passed away on May 22, 2025, leaving behind a life story filled with service, laughter, love, and the occasional tall tale.

A proud U.S. Navy veteran who served in Vietnam, Bo’s sense of duty didn’t end when he returned home—it only grew. He dedicated the next 37 years of his life to the Nashville Fire Department, where he retired as Captain. Bo was a certified hazmat specialist, served on the bomb squad, and was even part of the national bomb squad. But beyond the titles and certifications, what defined Bo most was his unwavering care for “his men.” He was a mentor to many and a selfless leader who never hesitated to run toward danger if it meant protecting others.

Bo had a heart as big as the outdoors he loved. Whether he was casting a line as a pro fisherman, tracking deer through the woods, or telling stories around a fire—some true, some questionably embellished—he lived life with a childlike joy that drew people in. His legendary storytelling, quick wit, and jokester spirit made him unforgettable.

He was also a master in the kitchen, happiest when cooking for a crowd and watching everyone leave the table full and smiling. He believed food tasted better when shared—and most things in life did too.

But Bo’s proudest title wasn’t Captain, or veteran, or even “champion tall tale teller.” It was “Poppy.” He was deeply involved in the lives of his children and grandchildren—on the sidelines of their games, in the stands at their events, and always cheering them on, sometimes louder than anyone else.

Bo Dillehay touched countless lives with his strength, compassion, and humor. His legacy will live on in the hearts of those he mentored, served with, fed, fished with, and above all, loved.

Visitation: will begin on Wednesday, May 28, 2025 from 3 – 8 PM, and continue Thursday, May 29, 2025 from 3-8 PM and then again Friday May 30, from 11 - until time of service.

Funeral Service: will begin at 1:00 PM on Friday, May 30, 2025 from the Chapel of Spann Funeral Home with John Greer officiating.

Interment: will follow at Dickson County Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Dickson, TN on Friday, May 30, 2025

Survivors:

Wife of 42 years:

Vicki Dillehay of White Bluff, TN

Children:

Jackie Dillehay of Charlotte, TN

Caycee Dillehay (Becca) of White Bluff, TN

Brooke Duffy (Bill) of Burns, TN

Grandchildren:

Madison, Austin, Jaycee, Lexi,

Autumn, Gracye, Aubrey, Evin, Ben

Great Grandchildren:

Wrenley, Weston

Preceded in death by:

Parents: Aubrey Hart Dillehay, and Mildred Howell Dillehay

Sister: Audrey “Tiny” Williams

Arrangements by Spann Funeral Home & Cremation Services (615) 446-1123