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Obituary For Robert J. Dillard
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Robert Jeffrey Dillard, affectionately known as "Bob" to his friends. He was born in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Bob was the beloved eldest child of the late Donald Dillard and the late Gladys Rosser-Dillard.
Bob was a man of faith, initially being a member of St. Paul’s Missionary Baptist Church and later becoming a dedicated member of Baptist Fellowship Church. His spiritual journey mirrored his commitment to community and family.
He was a true Pioneer, carving his path in life with resilience and determination. He graduated from John Harris High School in 1970 showcasing his commitment to education. Later on a football scholarship, he earned his degree in History and Political Science from Rutgers University (Livingston Campus) in 1974.
After college, Bob’s journey started by attending the FBI Academy in Quantico, Virginia, where he laid the foundation for his distinguished career in law enforcement.
His professional journey began as a Special Agent with the Naval Investigation Service (NIS), now known as NCIS. After 11 years of service, he returned to his roots in Harrisburg, where he served the community as a Police Officer and later as a Detective with the Harrisburg Police Department. His commitment to education and safety was evident as he became the first Chief of Police for the Harrisburg School District. Bob concluded his impactful career as the Deputy Superintendent of the Capitol Police for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
Beyond his professional life, Bob found joy in simple pleasures. He was an avid reader and writer. He also cherished Sunday afternoon’s watching football and cheering on his grandchildren in their various sports endeavors. His infectious sense of humor earned him the cherished title of the family jokester.
Notably, he shared an unparalleled bond with his daughter, Rudi, who was the apple of his eye and the joy of his life. They were inseparable-a duo whose connection was truly heartwarming.
On February 26, 2024 Robert Jeffrey Dillard peacefully transitioned into Eternal life.
Bob leaves behind a legacy of love and commitment. He is survived by his devoted wife of 47 years, Joe Ann Dillard; their children: son, Ryan J. Dillard (Celis) of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania and daughter, Rudi J. Dillard of Knoxville, Tennessee. He will be fondly remembered by his grandchildren, Ravaughn J. Dillard, Ahmad R. Belton, Ryalee J. Dillard and Anjoelis M. Brumbaugh, as well as his great-grandson, Zyair Dillard. Bob is also survived by his four loving brothers and sisters-in-law, Donald and Kim Davis of Upper Marlboro, Maryland, Ricky and Felisha Dillard of Dallas, Texas, Ronald Dillard of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, and Rory Dillard of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; three aunts all of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, Annette Smith, Shirley Dillard, and Jean Franklin, along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and countless friends.
Bob's life will be celebrated at 11:00 am on Saturday, March 9, 2024 at the First Baptist Church of Steelton, 1850 S 19th Street, Steelton, Pennsylvania with viewing and visitation from 9:30 a.m. until 11:00 and burial in William Howard Day Cemetery.
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Aaron Johnson sent Mixed Spray for Robert J. Dillard - March 10, 2024
So Sorry to hear about the loss of Bob Dillard. We send our Prayers and Condolences to the Dillard Family! Bob was an amazing man.
Aaron Johnson & the Johnson Family from Herr Street!
Andrae Henry sent Ocean Breeze Spray for Robert J. Dillard - March 09, 2024
Sending my condolences to the Dillard family.-Andrae Henry
Marla Newsome sent Simply Elegant Spathiphyllum for Robert J. Dillard - March 07, 2024
Please know that we are praying for peace and comfort.
Love y'all! Chris and Marla Newsome
Stately Croton was sent for Robert J. Dillard - March 07, 2024
Stately Croton was sent for Robert J. Dillard - March 07, 2024
Victor Weldon sent The Loving Light Dishgarden for Robert J. Dillard - March 05, 2024
Aunt Joe Ann, We hope you know we are here for you during this time of sorrow.
Love, Ronda/Victor/Tracy and kids
RIP DILL. Ray G.
My condolences and continued prayers for the Dillard family. Rest well Bob.
My deepest condolences during this difficult time Mrs JoAnn Dillard and family. Lean on the Lord for faith and strength he knows your sorry. Praying for you and your family.
My condolences and prayers to your family. Frances Waters
Condolences to the family... good memories of a life well lived
Stephanie
My thoughts and prayers for the Dillard Family. I was one Bob's classmates from the class of 1970. Every time I saw Bob he always had a smile. He was such a wonderful person. I remember the old days of John Harris High, and Bob played football with my brother George Buchanan. My brother George also passed away a few years ago. I also lost my mom last year in March 0f 2023. I keep your family in my prayers. And I hope this poem I wrote called, "Memories" bless your days with comfort. May Peace be with you always. Many Prayers. Doris Washington Email: Djeanw831@aol.com Memories I'll think of you, as the winter snow falls At night, and all is calm. I'll think of you, as the flowers blossom, Preparing for the spring. I'll think of you, as autumn makes it's way, After long beautiful summer days. I'll think of you, as seasons pass each year, Reminding me of wonderful times we shared. And now that you're with Him, there'll always Be the memories to cherish. I'll think of you. Doris Washington © 2020.
To family and friends, I'm so sorry to hear of your loss. Wishing you peace during this difficult time.
Jimetta Matthews-Hollinghead and the Matthews family
To family and friends, I'm so sorry to hear of your loss. Wishing you peace during this difficult time.
To the entire Dillard family may pleasant memories ease your sorrows and may God bless you all. RTP my friend. Sam Marsico
I knew Robert in high school. And I remember him as always being kind and respectful of others. My heartfelt sympathies go out to his family, as I know he will be deeply missed. Nadine (Snyder) Neidich
I am sorry for the loss of Rob, a fellow 1970 John Harris graduate. My condolences to the family. May the good Lord bless you and comfort you in the days ahead. Ron Felker
I want send my condolences to the family of Bob Dillard. We were classmates at John Harris HS, and lived in the same neighborhood. May the peace and blessing be with the family at this difficult time. Sharon Burhannan-Perry
Aunt Joann, Rudi & Ryan - sending our sincere condolences during this difficult time. Praying you all find comfort with your fond memories.
Love Always - Andrea Ward (aka Will) & Family
Praying for the Dillard family. Keeping Ms. Joan and the family lifted up in my prayers. Chaplain Linda Thompson.
My prayers of peace and comfort to the Dillard family. Bob was a decent man and served our community well. Much love.
Praying for the Dillard Famliy in this your time A bereavement..the Doziar family sends to you all love and comfort of peace .
The Doziar Family Dene Doziar-Mosby
EARTH HAS NO SORROWS THAT HEAVEN CAN'T HEAL..SANDRA PEMBERTON &FAMILY
Condolence on the loss of Mr. Dillard. When I was a Girl Scout Leader at St. Paul's Mr. Dillard would help his daughter, Rudi, and the other girl's rope tying. May the peace and blessing be with the family at this difficult time. Brenda Johnson
I wanted to send my condolences for the passing of a great man, Mr. Dillard, to Mrs. Dillard, Ryan, Rudi, and the rest of his family. I was so saddened to hear the news of his passing but that didn't last long because I know he is in Paradise with Yahweh and the Messiah. He has lived a great life and he leaves a legacy that he should be proud of. I went to school and am really close with Ryan and I always looked at Rudi like a little sister. I had the great fortune to spend a lot of time with Ryan growing up and when we would go to his house and see Mr. Dillard he would always make us laugh and he would always give us a life lesson. I appreciated how he would be at Ryan's and I's football and basketball games to give encouragement and show support. I'll always remember how he would tell Ryan "I love you son." I haven't seen or talked to Mr. Dillard in so long but I wish I would have seen him before his decline to let him know how much I appreciated him and to thank him for all of the positive memories I had with him and his family. Mr. Dillard, you will be sorely missed but our promise to you is to keep your memory alive and well and to pass forward all the attributes that made you such a great man to our loved ones.
My heartfelt sympathy and prayers to Jo Ann, extended family, and friends for God's comfort, grace and endurance. May Robert's precious memories linger and comfort you in the stillness of your midnights. He certainly will be missed.
Love,
Donald and Kim Davis
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.
