Douglas James Dilla

Douglas James Dilla left this world in the same way he lived it-quietly, on his own terms, with grace and just the right amount of stubbornness. In the early hours of June 25, 2025, he slipped away peacefully to rest, and the Earth has felt a little less steady without his calm strength holding it up. He is survived by his beloved wife of over 37 years Jo-Ann Dilla (his VBFF-- very best friend forever). His daughters Nichole Dilla and her fiancé Colin Desmarais of Connecticut, Marissa Dilla, and long-time boyfriend Joey Davidenko of Kentucky, his son Ryan Dilla of South Carolina. His mother, whom he adored, Patricia Cavanaugh Shortt of CT, his sister Melanie Cotter and her husband Tom Cotter of PA, his brother-in-law Jesse Taylor of VA, his sister Susan Beyer of CT, his granddaughter and great-granddaughter of CT. He also leaves behind countless nieces and nephews. Doug was preceded in death by his daughter Sarah Dilla, father John Howard Shortt, brother Craig Dilla, and his sister Meaghan Taylor. Eight years ago, Doug suffered a major heart attack, and was placed on life support for an extended period and faced many complications and challenges along the way. But in true Doug-fashion he defied all odds ands stayed with us for eight more precious years. Tough is an understatement...he was unshakeable. Douglas was not always loud about his love, but it was evident in everything he did. He was the happiest at home, soaking in the quiet beauty of his cozy Lebanon home. He found joy in the simple pleasures; riding the roads in his golf cart with his beloved, Jo-Ann, mowing and manicuring the lawn (without chemicals, as he loved the frogs) cooking soup from scratch, and tinkering with just about any gadget or machine that needed fixing. He loved all his children so much; they were everything to him and he always made sure they knew that. He did not smile easily in photos, but he always had a quiet sparkle in his eyes. His calm demeanor, witty (often dry) sense of humor, and boundless heart made him simply unforgettable. Everyone loved Doug. His quick wit and knowledge were endless. Doug had a mind like a steel trap; the kind of person everyone wanted as their lifeline for any trivia, jeopardy, or help with a crossword-anything really, he simply just knew…everything. Born and raised in East Hampton, CT, Doug was a steady and trusted figure in the community. He poured his heart into the community--coaching little league, playing on local softball teams, showing up time and time again for the people and places he loved the most. His loyalty ran deep. His presence steady and his life's work left a mark that will echo for generations. He owned and operated Edfinn Machine Company, a business he built with care and pride. He later went on to co-own PSI Plus, a cylinder company with his partner Karl Komp. But it was Bevin Brothers, the towns historic bell factory, that shaped much of his working life and legacy. Doug spent nearly 50 years at the factory, working alongside three generations of the Bevin family. Becoming not just part of the team, but part of the foundation. The Bevin family having noted, "much of the company's success is directly owed to Doug. And it simply will not be the same in his absence." To Doug, Bevin Brothers was more than just work, it was a place where co-workers became friends, who family, noting his longtime friendships with: Lazaro, Julio, and his "brother" Abdirahim. He also became fast friends with office manager, Heidi Bodley. The two would often crack jokes, and found great friendship in one another, keeping one another on their toes. Everyone at Bevin Brothers meant something to him. He had so many people in his life he cherished-specifically noting both Laurie Komp, and long-time neighbors and friends, The Tremblay family. Doug leaves behind a legacy of integrity, intelligence, humility, and love. And a family who will miss him beyond words but will continue to love him forever. A celebration of life will be held in honor of Doug, at a later date and time, to be announced by the family as they take this time to grieve and mourn the loss of such a remarkable man. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Douglas James Dilla, please visit our floral store.