Ricky Ray Dillard

Ricky graduated from high school with honors in 1970. He was an avid music lover, while in high school He wrote and played music in the band. He studied broadcast engineer at the local college in Alabama to further his career in music. In 1972 Ricky enlisted in the Unites States Air Force at Chanute Air Force Base in Illinois. He received an honorable discharge, and returned to his family in Hoover, Alabama. In 1978, he worked for the University of Alabama as a maintenance worker. He lived in Hoover, AL, Laurel, MD, Birmingham, AL, and finally settled in Denver, CO.

In Colorado, Ricky started a career in Aurora Public Schools as a paraprofessional and bus technician. After leaving Aurora Public Schools he worked for United Airlines Air Service, and in 2007 he went into an early retirement. While retired Ricky loved to travel, and visited many states including, Iowa, North Carolina, South Dakota and Washington.

He was a comforter in times of sorrow, a helper in times of need, and a giver in times of want. He was a true believer in God. "Yea, thou I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil: for thou art with me, thy rod and staff will comfort me."

Ricky joined his parents and siblings in heaven on January 30, 2019.

He leaves to cherish his memory his wife, Shelly "My Baby" Thomas, sisters, Brenda and Belinda; son, Ricky Ray, Jr.; daughters, Tywanna, Kristin, Tristen, and Mia; as well as, step children, grandchildren, step grandchildren, and a host of extended family and friends.

Special blessings to Joy, his dedicated care taker. Thank you!

Ricky Ray Dillard will rest at home, in Alabama. He will be laid to rest with honors.

We Love You Ricky.