Melvin Lee Dillard, Sr.

Melvin Lee Dillard, Sr. was born on July 8, 1951 in Manchester, Tennessee. He was the son of the late Jake Dillard and the late Jewell Little Dillard. He was raised in a loving family surrounded by his many siblings. He was preceded in death by his brothers, Jake Dillard, Jr., David Dillard, and Harry Dillard; his sister, Forrestine Dillard; and one daughter, Geneva Locke. He is still survived by two brothers, Tom (Jeannette) Dillard, Dennis (Ann) Dillard; and sisters, Nellie (Bobby) Battles, Myrtle Dillard, Sara Dillard, and Elizabeth Peppers.

Melvin leaves to mourn, his wife of 42 years Phyllis Dillard; his children, Nichole Locke, Melvin Lee Dillard, Jr., Donetta (Antonio) Taylor, Burnetta (Adrian) Smith; and grandchildren, Casey Locke, William Wellington, Shalei Jennings, Antonio Taylor, Jr., Lyonna Simmons, Avryel Smith, Javonna Bates, and Adrian Smith, Jr.

Melvin was loved by so many people, but he carried a special place in his heart for his best friend, Charles Bowies, and his wife, Jamerlynn, who will help carry memories on about him. He also had great ties with Samuel Ray Tonsell, who has also preceded him in death, and his favorite uncle, George Dillard, who has also preceded him in death.

Melvin spent most of his adult years in Cleveland, Ohio where he met and married his wife, Phyllis, and they built a life together and raised their children and grandchildren. He received that love until his last breath. He enjoyed fishing and growing his gardens, all while having a nice cold beer. He raised his children with love and a stern hand on the outcome of life if you do not choose wisely. He always told them to remember they were blessed by the best. He leaves a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and loving friends. He will be missed dearly.

A celebration of his life and homecoming visitation will be held at Gentry-Smith Funeral Home on Monday, July 7, 2025 from 11-3 pm. Memorial service will follow in the Gentry-Smith Funeral Home chapel at 3 pm. Share memories and condolences at www.gentrysmithfuneralhome.com Gentry-Smith Funeral Home, 303 Murfreesboro Rd. Woodbury, TN 37190, 615-563-5337. Because every life has a story.