A tribute to Jon Dillman; The impact of one life

Like many in our close-knit community, I was greatly saddened by the death of Jon. We connected at Hope Elementary where I was a teacher for 36 years. I think he was with me one class period each day as a fifth grader. Jon's mind was quite active. If asked his opinion about school, I suspect he would have declared it was not necessarily the best fit at times, but he still enjoyed it very much.

In fact, Jon always made sure he enjoyed life whether at school or home. He is featured in several short stories in his mother's wonderful book, “Patchwork Pieces of Life.” I found myself smiling while reading those sections as Rena's editor. Rena put the following in one chapter:

“After trying several sitters to take care of Jon and Darrell, we finally found one who was willing to come back. During her first experience, Jon tricked her into thinking he had disappeared by hanging from his window by his fingers and toes. After hearing his brother begging her to call the police, Jon finally made his appearance.

“Jon had a paper delivery route. After numerous phone calls and with his dad, Don, making paper deliveries on many late nights, it was decided a paper route should be delayed. Later, we found out our son often was at the home of a neighbor helping out with two smaller children whose mother was disabled and very ill. He would cook, wash dishes, vacuum, or whatever else needed to be done. He never told us about these missions of mercy. Their daughter shared this story.”

It is no wonder Jon ended up in service positions: received certification as an EMT, volunteered for the Hope and Clifford Fire Departments, served in the Hartsville Masonic Lodge, performed duties as a jailer for the Bartholomew Sheriff's Department, held a security guard position for Walt Disney Resort, likely because he loved Disney characters and their movies, and ended his service career splitting time at the Hartville Post Office and as a dispatcher for the Hope Police Department.

After Jon's death, I talked to several people who shared how he helped out in the community. Rena also heard numerous “Jon stories” when people came to Norman Funeral Home to pay their respects.

Paul Ashbrook, Hope Ride Coordinator, stated: “There were many times Jon bailed me out when I was in a jam. He was always up for an adventure and a tremendous joker who could dish it out and take it like a champ. When Jon was volunteering: frying fish, setting up for or tearing down after an event, he did it with hyper speed and the heart of a servant. Jon was truly one-of-a-kind guy who left a big mark on everyone he met and will be missed yet remembered fondly for the joy he found in life.”

Carol Ashbrook, Paul's Assistant Coordinator, stated: Jon loved to tease people and laugh. And he loved his dog, Roxie.” (Roxie is now with Ed Stone and Marsha, two of Jon's best friends.)

Lately, I have been thinking about the impact of our lives on others. Jon had few possessions, but his heart was big. Family, children, friends, and others obviously had a special place in Jon's heart. He made a positive impact on the lives of many and his legacy will continue through his generous actions.

During Jon's Celebration of Life, Brother Reggie McLaurine, The Sanctuary, presented 10 Inspiring Lessons from Jon Mark Dillman: “Be there for people in emergencies; Answer the call; Keep friends; Laugh; Be flexible; Aim high; Forgive; Recognize a great mom; Know tomorrow is not promised; Choose God.”

Those are outstanding lessons, lessons we can reflect upon and lessons that can help each of us while moving forward into 2022.

There are many ways to honor Jon's life. One way is by making a donation to the Hope Shop With A Cop Program. Checks should be made payable to the Town of Hope.