July 21, 1931 — Nov. 28, 2014

Albert Dillard Jr., 83, Dowagiac, passed away on Friday, Nov. 28, 2014, at The Timbers of Cass County in Dowagiac.

Albert was born to Albert and Alice (Robinson) Dillard, Sr., on July 21, 1931 in Rolling Fork, Mississippi. Albert never married. He joined the United States Army and served in the Korean War.

After his three years in the Army, Albert moved to Chicago in 1955 where he was employed as a factory worker for the Owens plastic container company for almost 30 years. Albert was known as a man who was selfless, loving and giving and always thought of others before himself. He loved gardening and took much pride in his home yard and garden area and received an award from the city of Dowagiac for his efforts in keeping up such a beautiful flower and plant garden. Albert also enjoyed fishing but kept his secrets with him about his favorite fishing holes. When he was in the service he started enjoying boxing with other fellow soldiers and then brought that to the family back yard with his brothers and other relatives. He was always physically fit, walked 3 miles a day until his 70s, and had three grapes a day along with other healthy foods. He loved baking pies and cakes and some even said he was a professional eater. He also enjoyed dancing and was known to be quite the gentleman. He had a special ability to remember people’s birthdays and would often respond before anyone else with his knowledge of dates and times.

Albert is survived by two brothers, Melvin Dillard of Chicago and John Dillard of South Bend; as well as two sisters, Luella Collins of Dowagiac and Laura Williamson of Dowagiac; as well as other nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents; and a brother, Hayes Dillard; and one sister, Earchlene Bennett.

A gathering of family and friends will take place on Friday, Dec. 5 from 10 a.m. to noon at Clark Chapel & Cremation Services, 405 Center Street in Dowagiac. A Homegoing Service will follow at noon with Pastor Henry Collins officiating. Albert will be laid to rest at Riverside Cemetery in Dowagiac following the service. A repass will then follow the committal service at the Second Baptist Church in Dowagiac. Those wishing to leave a memory or condolence of Albert may do so at www.clarkch.com.