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Robert H. (Bob) Dillard of Gladwyne, Pennsylvania passed away March 13, 2011. Mr. Dillard survived by his devoted wife, Elizabeth (Betsy) Clays Dillard. He is also survived by sons and daughters Bob Dillard and Cecily Lohmar, Susan Dillard and Josiah Hoffman, Barbara Dillard and Don Dillard, stepchildren Hope and Bill Riley, Jamie and Debbie Brown, 14 grandchildren and step grandchildren, and 9 great grandchildren. Mr. Dillard was preceded in death by brothers Clarence and Ernest Dillard. He is survived by his sister Lillian Mahone of Macon Georgia. Mr. Dillard was born to Elba and James Dillard August 24, 1918 in his family’s hometown of Dillard, Georgia. His father passed away when he was a toddler. He and his two brothers were raised by his mother and older sister, Lillian, in Macon, Georgia. He graduated from Lanier High School and Mercer University, both in Macon, Georgia. Mr. Dillard excelled academically and athletically. He played intercollegiate baseball and basketball. After graduation in 1940, Mr. Dillard joined the company he served in his entire career, Procter and Gamble. In 1941 Mr. Dillard joined the US Marine Corps. He served in the famed First Marine Division. The Marine Corps awarded him the Silver Star in recognition of his leadership, courage and valor during the taking of Guadalcanal. Before leaving the service with the rank of Captain, Mr. Dillard had received the Bronze Star at Cape Gloucester, the Presidential Citation of the First Marine Division, the Pacific Asiatic Ribbon with two stars, and the American Defense Ribbon. After his service in the Pacific, Mr. Dillard married Rachel Weyher of Kinston, North Carolina. Mr. Dillard resumed his career in sales and management. Promotions and transfers during his distinguished thirty-six years with P & G took Mr. Dillard from Macon to Jacksonville, Florida, Charlotte, North Carolina, Villanova, Pennsylvania, and Melbourne, Australia. During his years on the Main Line Mr. Dillard coached Pony League baseball. He honed a long, straight drive that served him well on the golf course. Mr. Dillard married Betsy Brown of Villanova in Melbourne, Australia. Overseas travel was a favorite of the Dillards. Many countries were visited. Africa left lasting memories after working in the Retired Executive Corps in Zimbabwe. They returned to Hersheys Mill in Pennsylvania for a much deserved retirement. Opportunities to host friends from all over the world brought enjoyment to both. Throughout his life, Mr. Dillard was active, athletic and competitive. He enjoyed following professional baseball and golf. In his eighties, Mr. Dillard was still an active golf league and paddle tennis competitor. Every opportunity to stay active was pursued. Fishing, golf, and tennis were all favorites. Mr. Dillard loved both domestic and international travels and adventures. His interest in new worlds and new friends enriched his life and those of his family. A memorial service was held March 15, 2011 and St. Christopher’s Church in Gladwyne, Pennsylvania. (Internment will be in Norristown at a later date).

Tributes

Robert H. Dillard

August 24, 1918 - March 13, 2011