Shelly Dillard

Shelley L. Dillard was born on November 2, 1959, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, to the late James and Goldie Lewis. Raised in a loving and close-knit family, she graduated from John Marshall High School. Shelley was known for her strength, warmth, and the quiet, steady way she poured love into the people and places around her.

She was the proud mother of three children: Erick Lewis (who preceded her in death), James Lewis, and Kelley Lewis. Shelley loved her children deeply and supported them through all of life’s seasons, always offering a steady hand and a caring heart. Her role as a grandmother brought her immeasurable joy. She leaves behind grandchildren who meant the world to her: K’Lee Jones, Kaleb Lewis, Theodore Lewis, Trevor Lewis, J’Manel Walker, J’Lewis Walker, Zaria Dunn, and Kayson Dillard.

Shelley dedicated her life to helping others. She worked for many years as a Certified Nurse Aide, caring for patients with compassion and dignity. Her heart for service extended beyond her career—Shelley and her husband Keith served together as foster parents for over ten years, opening their home to children in need. Many of those children— including Heidi, Samantha, and Briana, who all held a special place in her heart —affectionately called her “Mama,” a name she wore with quiet pride and love.

Shelley and Keith Dillard were united in marriage for 21 years where she found companionship and support. Through this union, she also welcomed a stepdaughter, Danielle Dillard, into her heart and family.

Shelley found peace in life’s simple pleasures—tending to her plants and yard, expressing herself through crafts, and spending time with those she loved most. Her nurturing presence, sense of humor, and “life of the party” spirit left a lasting impression on everyone who knew her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, James and Goldie Lewis; her son, Erick Lewis; and her sisters, Linda Johnson, Myrna Bottoms, and Debra Lewis.

She is survived by her husband of 21 years, Keith Dillard; her children, James Lewis and Kelley Lewis; her stepdaughter, Danielle Dillard; her grandchildren, K’Lee Jones, Kaleb Lewis, Theodore Lewis, Trevor Lewis, J’Manel Walker, J’Lewis Walker, Zaria Dunn, and Kayson Dillard; her sister, Martha Mitchell; her brothers, Gregory Lewis, Garland Lewis, and Terry Lewis; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and dear friends.

Shelley will be remembered for her unwavering devotion to her family, her heart for caregiving, and the many lives she touched through her kindness and strength. Her legacy lives on in the love she gave and the memories she leaves behind.