Delbert Ray Dillon

He will be remembered by everyone he met as a caring, kind, generous man who would and did help anyone who needed a hand. The saying “he would give the shirt off his back to help someone” describes him perfectly. He dedicated his life to caring for his family, friends and even strangers. He was no stranger to sacrifice throughout his life. At the age of 13 he worked the family farm, plowing acres of land with a horse or mule and wooden plow to help his parents feed his family of 11 siblings. Delbert served in the Army on the front lines in World War II from 1942 to 1946 as sergeant and tank commander in the 14th Armored Division 94th Calvary Reconnaissance Squadron Mechanized in France and Germany. His division was known as the Liberators for liberating concentration camps and his unit received a Presidential Citation for outstanding performance of duty in action in the battle at Hatten and Rittershoffen. He worked for The Bluefield Daily Telegraph as circulation manager for 21 years. He retired after 17 years of employment as a store manager with Cargo Oil in Bluefield, WV. He enjoyed playing the banjo and guitar and was base singer in the Falls Mills Methodist Church for years. Even at the age of 99, seldom did anyone beat him at a game of Gin Rummy.

Delbert left us to be with the love of his life, Madeline and beautiful daughter Deborah as well as all the many family members who preceded him. He will be sorely missed by his daughter Brenda Parker, son-in-law Eddie Parker, his grandchildren Angie Parker, Greg Parker (wife Catriona) and Chad Sopsher (wife Catherine), and his great grandchildren Dillon, Logan, Cameron, and Shea. He also had three great-great grandchildren.

Memorial services are being planned for Ormond Beach, Florida and Bluefield, VA/ WV at a later date. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Kindred Hospice Palm Coast.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.volusiamemorialfunerals.com for the Dillon family.