James Roland Dillenger

1929 - 2009

James Roland Dillenger was born on June 10, 1929, in Richmond, Va., to Anna Louisa Schiebelhuth and George Augustus Dillenger, left this world's problems and his earthly body behind when he succumbed to cancer on Tuesday, January 20, 2009. He was known by many names to many special relatives and friends, Dilly, Jim, Lucky D., J.R., Uncle James, D., and Mr. D. He is survived by his wife and first mate of 58 years, Rowena Frith Dillenger; four siblings, Audrey Dillenger Owens, George Stuart Dillenger, Jean Dillenger Cahen, and Norma Pearce Sutphin; and many nieces and nephews; great-nieces and nephews; and great-great-nieces and nephews. All of his working years were spent in the insurance industry beginning in the late 1940's as an agent for Reserve Life Insurance Company. This led to a long, successful career with Richmond Life Insurance Company as a manager of their Southwest Virginia Agency and later promoted to lead the entire field force. In 1967 he was a founder of First Commonwealth Corporation, along with business associates and friends, Lyle D. Thornhill and Reed I. West, serving as Executive Vice-President and Secretary until the company was sold in 1984. Always the impeccable dresser, charming and witty, James gained the high respect of his associates and friends for his business acumen and marketing skills. He loved the fun things in life and was always ready for a party -be it dancing, playing cards, visiting a casino, enjoying fine dining, or just entertaining at home. His giving spirit to friends, family and business associates will always be remembered. The Venerable William O. Jones will conduct a private interment in Greenwood Memorial Garden's Whispering Pines Section, 12609 Patterson Ave., Richmond, Va., with a Celebration of Life planned for a date to be announced. In lieu of flowers, a donation would be honored to your favorite charity, to Bon Secours Hospice, 5875 Bremo Road, Suite 710, Richmond, Va. 23226 or to Little Sisters of the Poor, 1503 Michaels Road, Richmond, Va. 23229. The family extends deepest gratitude to caregivers, Mary Kelsey, Dorisann Bryant, Gloria Alexander, Andre Chamberlain, Suzy Albus, Bon Secours Hospice, Richmond Ambulance Authority, Johnston-Willis Hospital Emergency Room, and 4th Floor Staff and Physicians.