James C. Dillard

Mr. James “Buzz” Dillard, age 77 of Franklin, KY, passed away peacefully at the Hospice House in Bowling Green, KY surrounded by his loving family. He was unyielding in the face of a terminal illness. He exemplified strength with a rare and noble courage. Showcasing his resilience, uncommon valor, and his heroic fortitude.

Visitation will be held from 2:00 pm until 8:00 pm Friday, March 21, 2025 and from 6:00 am until 11:00 am Saturday, March 22, 2025 at Gilbert Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc. Funeral service will be held at 11:00 am Saturday at the funeral home with burial to follow in the Sulphur Spring Cemetery in Simpson Co., KY with military honors by the Simpson County Honor Guard.

A native of Robertson County, TN, Buzz was born on May 21, 1947 to the late Johnnie Dillard and the late Lola Mae (Lovelady) Dillard. He is also preceded in death by a brother, Harold Dillard

He is survived by his cherished wife of 55 years, Judy Akin Dillard of Franklin, KY; 2 sons, Troy Dillard of Franklin, KY and Kelly Dillard (Kasey) of White House, TN; 2 adored grandchildren, McKinley and Henry; 9 siblings, Wallace Dillard (Ruth Ann), Stella Curry, Jean Strode, Joe Dillard, Carolyn Miller (Rondal), Robert Dillard (Patsy), Jackie Dillard (Brenda), Jerry Dillard and Ralph Dillard (Bobbie Jo); and many nieces and nephews.

Buzz was a 1966 graduate of East Robertson High School. He was drafted into the military during the Vietnam Era and served in the Army from 1966-1968 where he achieved the rank of sergeant. He was an employee of the Kendall Company/Berry Plastics for over 45 years. He was a member of Salmons General Baptist Church. He enjoyed gardening, playing cornhole, watching UK Basketball, relaxing by his pool and riding in his convertible, and most of all, spending time with his family.

He was a man of faith and always trusted in God, even through the trials he endured. We are truly grateful to have known him. His presence made our lives richer and we’ll always treasure the memories we created together. “To live in the hearts, we leave behind is not to die” (Thomas Campbell)

In lieu of flowers expressions of sympathy may be made to the Hospice of Southern KY, 5872 Scottsville Road, Bowling Green, KY 42104 or to Salmons General Baptist Church, 4223 Bowling Green Road, Franklin, KY 42134, envelopes will be provided at the funeral home.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Gilbert Funeral Home & Crematory. The website is www.gilbertfhonline.com. The Facebook page is Gilbert Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc. The obituary phone line is 270-586-8844.