James Wilton "Billy" Dillard, Sr., 72, of Tifton passed away Saturday, November 25, 2017, at Tifton Health and Rehabilitation. A graveside funeral service will be held for Mr. Dillard at 11:00 a.m. Monday, November 27, 2017, at Oak Ridge Cemetery, where he will be laid to rest. The Rev. Andy Ring will officiate. The family will receive friends Monday, November 27, 2017, from 10:00 a.m. until the hour of the service at Bowen-Donaldson Home for Funerals.
Born June 6, 1945 in Tift County, Mr. Dillard was the son of the late Ivey Dillard and Essie Jewel Weldon Dillard. He was also preceded in death by two brothers, Donnie Dillard and Sirman Dillard. Before retiring, he was a farmer and worked at Excelsior Farms and was of the Baptist faith.
Mr. Dillard is survived by one son and daughter-in-law, Jamie and Tammy Dillard of Tifton; one daughter, Mendy Dillard of Tifton; one brother, Ronnie Dillard of Tifton; four grandchildren; James Dillard III and wife Chelsea, Justin Hasty, Jessica Hayles and husband Justin, and Kelly Hand and husband Lucas; and two great-grandchildren, Chandler Dillard and Brynton Hayles.