Gary Lynn Dillard, age 68, of Seguin, passed away at his residence on Nov. 15. Gary was born in Lubbock, Texas, on Oct. 6, 1954, to Melba and AR Dillard.
Gary was the second born of two children and grew up living and working with his father on the family farm. He attended Hereford schools and was flying gliders by the age of 12. After graduating high school with his private pilot’s license already in hand, he headed to Louisiana Tech University. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in professional aviation and airport administration. After a short stint in Corpus Christi as a flight instructor, he was hired by Othal Brand Sr. to fly for Griffin and Brand Produce Co. in McAllen, Texas. Later he added flying for Card Co. and the wonderful Larry Hofland family. Additionally, he took to the skies with Jones and Jones Inc. Gary served on the Airport Advisory Board before leaving to live in Pagosa Springs, Colo. Together with his wife, Carol, they developed a very successful retail business, The Corner Store Inc. He served as president of the Lions Club, actively supported the 4-H program and together with his wife served on the board for the Colorado State Workforce.
Gary was an avid sportsman. His best memories were spent with friends hunting, skiing, camping and horseback adventures in the high country. He had an uncanny knack for making, keeping and communicating with friends from church, schools and business. Gary touched so many lives. Even with his long journey dealing with diabetes, cancer and kidney failure, he made friends with doctors and health care workers everywhere he went.
Survivors include his wife of 37 years, Mary Carol Collins; his mother, Melba Dillard; sister Glenda Tiner; cousin Barbara Dillard McCallon; great nieces Brooklyn Allen and Tynneson Allen; and nephew Colston Allen. He is also survived by his constant companion and faithful dog, Wendy.
A memorial service is planned for a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 7023, Merrifield, VA 22116-7023; or the MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd., Houston, Texas 77030 or the American Kidney Fund, 11921 Rockville Pike, Suite 300, Rockville, MD 20852. The family encourages all to become organ donors.
You are invited to sign the guest book at www.treshewell.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Tres Hewell Mortuary, 165 Tor Drive, Seguin, Texas, 78155, (830) 549-5912.
