James Eric Dillard

James Eric Dillard, 74, of Greeley, Colorado, passed away Friday, May 16, 2025, due to complications caused by Agent Orange. Born in Stillwater, Oklahoma, was the son of the late Homer L. Dillard and Vera Fern Dillard.

Jim lived a life defined by grit, loyalty, and a generous spirit that touched everyone who knew him.

Jim served his country with courage and honor as a member of the U.S. Marines From 1968 to 1971 during the Vietnam War. He spent most of his Vietnam tour in and around Danang which is the Northern region of South Vietnam. While there, he served with the Marine Tactical Air Control Group on Monkey Mountain. Though the war left its scars, most unseen, it also revealed the strength of his character—a deep sense of patriotism captured by his lifelong love for Bruce Springsteen’s, “Born in the U.S.A.”

After returning home, “Doctor Dillard” aka “J Dog” (Tiger, Dad, Grandpa) built a career in the oil fields that spanned over 40 years. From Drilling Fluids Engineer to Enhanced Oil Recovery Manager, he was known for his tireless work ethic, his problem-solving instincts, and his steady presence in the toughest of conditions. He retired from SNF, Inc. in 2016, and his legacy has not been forgotten to present day.

But it was in the kitchen where Jim revealed a softer, more creative side. Though he never trained as a chef, his cooking rivaled the best.

He also leaves behind countless friends, fellow veterans, and oil field brothers who will forever cherish his humor, his loyalty, and the music of a man born in the U.S.A.

His last phone call with his brother, Charlie, was etched with quotes which will never be lost:

“We were the happiest when we were ignorant;”.

Stay ignorant.

“No one knows what happens between two and five beers.”

Between two and five beers, was a deep love for his champion dogs that he raised and praised, his experiences that shaped him but mostly his love, gratitude and appreciation for his family and friends.

Surviving is his wife, Barbara of 41 years; children, Justin Shane of Omaha, Nebraska and Joni (Paul) Mandigo of Denver, Colorado; 4 Grandchildren; brother, Charlie Dillard of Weatherford, Oklahoma; sister, Mary Kellner of Greeley, Colorado.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister Kellie Sensintaffar and Granddaughter, Molly Mandigo.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The Marine Corps Association at mca-marines.org.