James Donald Dillard, 85, passed away on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, at Sunshine Health Care in Pontotoc, MS. Born October 3, 1940, in Pontotoc to James Kimble and Mildred Stalnaker Dillard, he served as a medic in the United States Army. After his discharge, he met and married Emma Owen, and the couple moved to Memphis, where he worked at Sears Logistics for 36 years. In Memphis, he was active in Grey Road Church of the Lord Jesus Christ, serving as a deacon, Sunday school teacher, and usher. Following his retirement from Sears in 2006, he and Emma returned to Pontotoc to be close to their families, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and three special great grandnieces.
Donald is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Emma Owen Dillard; his sons, Phillip Dillard (Anita) of Pontotoc and Stephen Dillard (Melinda) of Memphis; his grandchildren, Tiffany Ashcraft (Devin), Justin Dillard (Amber), and Kaylie Dillard; his great-grandchildren, Zoey, Zadi, Judson, and Sophie; and his siblings, Bobbie Galloway, Joe Dillard, Jimmy Dillard (Donna), Teresa Owen, Bonnie Barker, and Tim Carter.
He was preceded in death by his father, J.K. Dillard; his mother, Mildred Carter; and his sister, Joyce Dillard.
Funeral services are set for 1 PM on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at West Pontotoc Pentecostal Church, led by Bro. Kaleb Morgan, Bro. Clint Long, and Bro. Steve Morgan. Visitation will be from 12 PM until the service begins.
Pallbearers include Terry Owen, David Tidwell, Donivon Owen, Chase Long, and Keshun Buchanan.
In place of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude.
