Willie James Dillard was born in Beloit, AL on May 9, 1934 to the late Eliza Brooks and Will Dillard.  He was the 4 ^th of 5 children. On Saturday, January 14, 2023 at the Western Reserve (Ames) Hospice Center in Westlake, Ohio, he went to sleep in death as God called him home to rest from his labor.

Willie accepted Christ at a young age and joined the Mt. Calvary AME church in Beloit, AL. He graduated from Dallas County Training School and relocated to Cleveland, OH in 1955.

He worked various jobs until he started a career as a driver in the trucking industry and later retired in 1999 from Conway Central Express with an exemplary record for safe driving.

Willie united with the Church of the living God, CWFF in 1958 and served faithfully over the years in many capacities. In 1998 he became an ordained deacon and continued to serve tirelessly while embracing greater responsibilities alongside his Pastor.

Willie had a great passion for gardening, and he loved family time and Christian fellowship. He had a tender heart for the elderly and after retirement, he joined a meals- on-wheels program to deliver hot meals to immobile seniors.

The lead guitar was Willie's favorite instrument, Quartet music was his favorite genre and singing was one of his favorite pastimes. His smile and laughter was a personality trait that people would readily remember.

Deacon Dillard had many spiritual children and was seen as a spiritual giant in the congregation and within the church community. He was a mentor to most and a friend to all.

Three sisters preceded him in death; Emma Shivers, Gladys Simmons, Hattie Mae Dillard and Baby Boy Dillard. One sister, Ethel Mixon, presently residing in Los Angeles, CA.

He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife of 38 years, Apostle Barbara A Dillard, Four children, Eddie Lee Coleman (Olivia), Selma AL, Willie Darrell Hines (Inez) Cleveland, Ohio, Yatilda Joi Dillard, Florida, Courtney Carter, Cleveland, Ohio; One stepson, Howard Monroe, Huntsville, AL, a special niece, Diana Dillard, Birmingham, AL. Seven grandchildren, four great grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.