Louis Robert Dishman Jr. "PaPa Dish"

With hearts both heavy and filled with gratitude, we announce the passing of Louis R Dishman, Jr., affectionately known to many as "PaPa Dish," who went home to be with the Lord on May 18, 2025. His 92 years were a testament to a life lived with unwavering faith and deep love for those around him.

PaPa Dish's devotion to Jesus Christ was the cornerstone of his existence, guiding his actions and shaping his character. Closely following his love for the Lord was his profound adoration for Mary Francis Gillam, his beloved wife of 69 years. Their enduring partnership was an inspiration to all who knew them, a true reflection of commitment and love.

Family was at the heart of PaPa Dish's world. He cherished every moment spent with his 3 sons, Mike, Mark and Andy, 3 daughter in-laws, Beverly, Becky (whom we were sure greeted PaPa Dish and had a heavenly celebration) and Shery respectively, 5 grandchildren: Mandi, Rachael, daughters of Mike and Beverly; Rob and Sydney, son and daughter of Mark and Becky; Sophie, daughter of Andy and Shery; and 6 great-grandchildren, creating a legacy of love that will continue for generations. His guidance, warmth, and unwavering support were a constant source of strength for them all.

A pillar of his community, PaPa Dish was deeply involved in the First Bible Church of Decatur, where his faith found expression through fellowship and the mission field, both locally and internationally. Beyond the church walls, PaPa Dish was a devoted member of his community, always ready to lend a helping hand and contribute to its well-being.

In 1968, after a tenure at Wolverine and NASA at Redstone Arsenal, PaPa Dish, a 1955 mechanical engineer graduate of his beloved alma mater API, Auburn University, started his own engineering consulting firm. This move would define his professional legacy for more than 3 decades. However, beyond the impressive roster of clients and groundbreaking projects, his most profound impact was the care, support and development of his own team. It was a testament to his belief that true success is built on caring for those around you.

And let's not forget his spirited enthusiasm for his Auburn Tigers. Win or lose, his loyalty did not waver, and he could always be counted on to cheer them on with passion and pride.

PaPa Dish lived a life rich in faith, love, and service. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

So I guess you can say, PaPa Dish loved 6 things:

• Jesus

• Mary: Mary Francis Gillam Dishman

• His Family

• His Church

• His Community

• And His Auburn Tigers

But not necessarily in that order... except Jesus and Mary... his wife.

A memorial service for Mr. Dishman will be held Friday, May 23, 2025 at 1:00 PM at First Bible Church, 3202 Spring Ave SW, Decatur, AL 35603.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the First Bible Church of Decatur-Missions.

Roselawn Funeral Home is honored to be serving the family.