David Burton Dillard, 65, of Smithville, TN, a master craftsman and beloved comedian at heart, passed away peacefully at St. Thomas Rutherford Hospital in Murfreesboro, TN after more than 20 years battling cancer and related health issues.
Born on May 23, 1959, in Ferndale, Michigan, David grew up with a passion for craftsmanship. After graduating from Lamphere High School, David built a career in construction and later specialized in cabinetry, delighting in teaching his trade and sharing his humor. Known for his quick wit and sayings like ‘Bub, one stipulation!’ David brought laughter to every room.
David is survived by his children, Edward (Shannon) Dillard and Jolene (Matt Short) Dillard, both of Murfreesboro, who inherited his love for creating and laughing; his brother, Kerry (Diane) Dillard, of Troy, MI; and three grandchildren, Elliot Dillard, Lillian Dillard, and Jude Short. David also leaves behind cherished extended family, including his niece Tamara Dillard and nephew Kerry (Tracy) Dillard of Royal Oak, MI, niece Tia (Jesse) Adcock of Smithville, and niece Kylie Dildine of Sparta, along with their families.
David was predeceased by his parents, Howard and Jo Dean Dillard, of Troy, MI, and his siblings, Duane Dillard and Sandra Dildine, both of Smithville.
David’s loyal dogs, Izzy and Baby, were his constant companions, and he was grateful for the unwavering support of dear friends Jerry Taylor and Jeremy Mauldin in his final years.
David’s requests were to be an organ donor and for his body to be donated to medical/cancer research. There will be no public service at this time. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in David’s name to Cancer Research Institute at cancerresearch.org
If David ever called you ‘Bub’ or shared one of his renowned stipulations, you knew you were a true friend.