Thomas Dillow Jr.

Mr. Thomas Dillow, Jr., age 78 of Buford, passed peacefully in the comfort of his home on Thursday, January 29, 2026 surrounded by family.

Mr. Dillow was born March 10, 1947 to the late Thomas Dillow, Sr. & Eleanor Trembeth Dillow in Rome, New York. He was also preceded in death by his sister Linda Douglas.

He is survived by his wife, Bonnie Dillow (Buford, GA); his children, Brent Dillow (Carrollton, GA), Leslie Dillow (McDonough, GA), and Jason Fitzwater (Buford, GA); his eleven grandchildren, Kiersten Blandon (Andres), Victoria Richardson, Maegan Kwolek, Hailey Dillow, Zachary Pexton, Lillian Fitzwater, Allison Brooke, Farrah Fitzwater, Jeremiah Michaux, Olivia Michaux, Maddie Paschal; and his great grandchild Brynlee Roberts; sisters Sharon Bays (South Point, OH), and Joyce Ash (Willow Wood, OH).

Tom honorably served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War, answering the call to serve his country with bravery and dedication. He was a Regular Army Infantryman who achieved the rank of Specialist Fourth Class. During his time he completed three years of active duty service. He was awarded the National Defense Service Medal as a testament to his commitment and sacrifice in service to the nation. His military service was a source of quiet pride and shaped the values he carried throughout his life.

Tom could often be found with an ice cold Coca-Cola in hand, talking cars with friends while restoring old classics such as his 1967 Chevy C-10 Short Bed and his 1923 Ford T-Bucket. Weekends at car swap meets with his best friends were some of his happiest moments. He was a devoted fan of football, always cheering for the Washington Redskins and Georgia Bulldogs. Tom also found comfort in life's quieter moments, especially well-earned naps in his recliner.

Tom's greatest pride and joy was his family. He loved fiercely and showed up for those he cared about without hesitation. Family gatherings, everyday conversations, and quiet moments alike meant everything to him, and he found his greatest purpose in being present for the people he loved. Most notably, Tom selflessly stepped into the role of parent once again, devoting himself to raising two of his grandchildren with patience, strength, and unconditional love. His guidance, protection, and steady presence shaped their lives in immeasurable ways. Tom's legacy lives on through the family he cherished so deeply and the love he gave so freely.

Tom will be remembered for his leadership, unwavering integrity, and love for his family. He was a father, grandfather, and brother not only by blood, but in the way he cared for so many. The wisdom, guidance and advice he shared are the legacy for those he cared for extending from Kentucky, Ohio, Maryland, Virginia, Georgia and Florida. Tom was also a proud member of Union Grove Baptist Church in Auburn, GA. He touched many lives across a great many places and will live forever in the hearts and minds of those he leaves behind.

PSALM 23:

The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.

He maketh me to lie down in green pastures:

he leadeth me beside the still waters.

He restoreth my soul:

he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,

I will fear no evil: for thou art with me;

thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.

Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies:

thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life:

and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.

A celebration of life will be held for close family and friends on February 21, 2026 at Union Grove Baptist Church in Auburn, GA.

Memorial Park Braselton Funeral Home 5257 Hwy 53 Braselton, GA 30517 is in charge of

arrangements. Send online condolences to www.memorialparkfuneralhomes.com.