Richard Levon Dillard, Sr. was born June 30, 1942 and peacefully departed this life on June 6, 2026. He lived a life defined by service, hard work, loyalty, athletic achievement, and unwavering devotion to family. As the last of his siblings, he carried forward a legacy of love, loyalty, and resilience that will continue through those he touched. He was a man who never met a stranger and whose presence left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Warjunia Allsbrooks Wall and Narvelle Dillard, and his siblings, Lorenzo Dillard and Hilda Dillard Hodge, whom he loved dearly.

He leaves to cherish his memory his son, Richard Levon Dillard, Jr., who was the pride and joy of his life; his grandson, Kameron Dillard; his devoted partner, Lisa Dillard; and his beloved bonus children, Joshua Abshire, Melissa Abshire, and Sean Bradley. He also leaves behind five bonus grandchildren and three bonus great-grandchildren, all of whom he loved as his own.

Though he had one son of his own, Richard opened his heart and home to many others. He held a special place in his heart for the children of his sister, Hilda Hodge. He helped raise Ester (Maria) Graves, Adrienne Smith, Tammi Hodge, Leah (Shereen) O'Neal, Elmia (Minky) Hodge, and Clayton (Quakey) Hodge, serving as a father figure who provided guidance, love, wisdom, and unwavering support throughout their lives. His influence extended far beyond his immediate family, and countless lives were enriched by his kindness, generosity, and willingness to help whenever he was needed.

He is also lovingly remembered by his special cousins, Barbara Allsbrooks Cain, whom he loved as a sister, and Algiefields Cain, whom he loved as a brother, along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and loved ones. Richard cherished his extended family deeply and remained a steady source of encouragement, wisdom, and support throughout his life.

A proud graduate of Atkins High School, Richard was an outstanding athlete whose love for sports began early in life. An avid baseball player, he excelled not only on the baseball field but also in basketball, track and field, and nearly every sport he pursued. His natural athletic ability, competitive spirit, and determination were evident throughout his life and inspired those around him.

Richard proudly served his country in the United States Army. Following his military service, he became a familiar and trusted presence in the community as the owner and manager of a neighborhood gas station.

Through his dedication and friendly spirit, he built lasting relationships and earned the respect of those he served. Richard dedicated 30+ years of service to R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company, where he worked as a Supervisor at Whitaker Park, earning the admiration and respect of colleagues through his leadership, strong work ethic, and commitment to excellence. After his time there, he continued his lifelong commitment to work and community with 30+ years of service at Modern Toyota, where he faithfully served in shuttle and delivery services and remained actively working there until he was called home. He took great pride in his role and deeply valued the relationships he built with coworkers and customers over the years.

The Dillard family extends special appreciation to his dear friend and coworker, Brad Jessup of Modern Toyota, whose steadfast friendship, kindness, and support meant so much to Richard and to the entire family.

One of Richard's greatest passions was softball. From his youth through his senior years, he competed at a high level, earning numerous awards, tournament titles, and state championships. He participated in Senior Games and remained active in the sport for decades, even receiving an invitation to play this year. Family and friends affectionately recalled that the moment Richard hit the ball, he would take off running like "The Road Runner," often leaving everyone else in the dust. His love for the game, competitive spirit, and sportsmanship inspired generations of players.

Richard also held a deep affection for Dreamland Park, a place he considered his church home. For more than twelve years, he faithfully supported its mission and community, helping preserve a place that held special meaning for him and many others.

Above all, Richard was devoted to his family. Among his greatest blessings was his son, Richard Levon Dillard, Jr., who brought him immeasurable pride and joy from the day he was born. To his family and those he helped raise, he was more than a father figure—he was a hero, a mentor, a protector, and a constant source of strength. He exemplified what it means to love unconditionally, to lead by example, and to always show up for those who needed him.

Richard will be remembered for his service to his country, his dedication to his work, his passion for sports, his generosity toward others, and the love he freely gave to family and friends. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him, and his legacy will continue through the many lives he touched.

Funeral service will be 11:30 A.M., Wednesday, June 17, 2026 at Dreamland Park Missionary Baptist Church, 2340 Dunbar Street, Winston-Salem, North Carolina 27105. Public viewing will be held at 11:00 A.M. during family visitation. Interment in Gardens of Memory.

For a copy of funeral program click here