Stephen O'Neil Dillard Sr.

Stephen O'Neil Dillard Sr., known to all as Steve, passed away peacefully on February 6, 2026, at the age of 78, at his home in Metairie, Louisiana, surrounded by his family.

Steve was born on March 15, 1947, and lived a life defined by service, integrity, and an open heart. A proud United States Navy veteran, he served during wartime aboard the USS Enterprise and was awarded the Vietnam Service Medal, the Vietnam Campaign Medal, and the National Defense Service Medal.

Following his military service, Steve devoted his life to public service and justice. He earned a Master's degree in Criminal Justice from Loyola University and graduated in the Class of 1971 with the New Orleans Police Department, where he served as a homicide detective. His dedication to service extended well beyond his career-he was a member of VFW Post 6640, American Legion Post 307, the Fraternal Order of Police, Disabled Veterans Chapter 37 and a devoted leader in the Boy Scouts of America.

Steve was known for his warmth, humor, and ability to connect with anyone he met-he truly never met a stranger. He loved Jimmy Buffett, fishing, and traveling to the Smoky Mountains with his wife. Above all else, he cherished his family.

Steve was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence Dillard and Gloria Lintinger Dillard.

He is survived by his first wife, Judith Dunn LaCava, with whom he shared 15 years of marriage, and their children: Steve Dillard Jr. (Linette), their daughters Katelynn (Clant) and Brittany, and great-granddaughter Rosemary; Christi Dillard Bonvillain (Keenan), their son Brandon; Ricky Dillard (Christy), and their sons Cooper and Mason.

He is also survived by his beloved second wife, Peggy Alexander, to whom he was married for 30 years, and their children: Nicolle Saunee Crovetto (Troy); Jules Saunee IV (Melanie), and their children Jules V, Thomas, Anne, Elaine, Thérèse, John-Paul, and Madeleine.

Steve is further survived by his siblings, Preston and Allison.

Services will be held at The Garden of Memories Funeral Home, 4900 Airline Drive, Metairie, Louisiana, on Thursday, February 19. Visitation will take place from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., followed by Mass at 1:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Fraternal Order of Police by mail to P.O. Box 24154 New Orleans, LA 70184 or through their website www.FOPNO.com.

Steve's legacy of service, loyalty, and kindness lives on through the many lives he touched. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.