Emily Sue Dillard

Emily Sue (York) Dillard, 88, passed away February 1, 2025, at the Health Center at Hoosier Village in Zionsville, IN. She is survived by her three sons, Mark Dillard (Indianapolis), Kris Dillard (Atlanta, GA), Kevin Dillard (Whitestown, IN), and her brother David (Debbie) York of Greensburg, IN. Although not a blood relative, she is also survived by Georgia Elkins who was like a daughter to Emily from a very early age.

After graduating high school in 1954, Emily went on to earn her B.S. and M.S. degrees from Indiana University. Emily retired as a teacher. In the 80s, she taught English as a second language (ESL). In addition to teaching ESL, she helped immigrants learn about getting jobs, learning about the laws, and cultural aspects of living in America. She was highly regarded by her students and their families.

Emily was an incredibly talented artist and worked with many different art mediums from decorating gourds, which was a passion she shared with her late husband of 60 years, Robert Dillard, to painting exquisite detail on rocks, and creating beautiful crafts with beads. Her favorite thing to do was to pick flowers so she could press them and memorialize them. She had a magnificent collection of pressed flowers that she incorporated into her art.

She was a member of the Indiana Gourd Society and even won a First-place ribbon at the 2008 Indiana State Fair for her incredible woodburning artistry on a Gourd.

Emily enjoyed traveling with her husband through parts of Europe and Asia. She loved meeting new people from around the world. Through her travels, teaching, and acts of charity, she demonstrated her enthusiasm for continuous learning and took every opportunity to help others. In the 70s, she volunteered her time to help patients and prisoners with their rehabilitation at mental health institutions (the old Central State Hospital) and prisons (Terre Haute and Pendleton). She helped many people less fortunate than herself and always encouraged them to be their best.

Her kindness, generosity, and her laughter will be deeply missed.

Memorial gifts may be sent to Westview Christian Church, Disciples of Christ at https://westviewchristianchurch.org/ or by mail to 5925 WEST 34TH STREET, INDIANAPOLIS, IN 46224.