Douglas Jerome Dillard

I first played softball with Doug in the 70s. I was always amazed at his athletic ability, particularly his speed on the base paths! On one of our trips to the Huntsman Games in Utah, Doug came by my room and asked me if I would like to attend his induction into the Huntsman Hall of Fame for track and field. He said he would be honored if I was able to be there. I told him I was the one who would be honored to be there! I'm sure I speak for everyone who knew Doug when I say it was truly an honor for all of us to have been his friend. I will miss his unique smile but his memory will always bring a bit of that smile to my face. Rest easy my friend.

I met Doug when a new Meijer store was being planned for McNichols and Grand River, in the backyard of his Miller Grove community. He and I were part of a group of neighbors and community folks who challenged Meijer to hire locally and to work with the community to make the store a real resource for the neighborhood. He was stalwart in that work, and we became friends. We would meet often for coffee/tea at a local hangout, and we would share our most recent adventures and the issues that motivated us. He would regale me with stories of his softball and basketball teams and his participation in the Huntsman Games in Utah. He would also keep me up on his travels to see family and friends. His journeys to Cuba and Costa Rica. His smile was infectious. His sense of humor was a balm in hard times. His wit was spot on. I liked his politics. I will always remember, and have sometimes adopted for myself, his greeting whenever I called him...even when things were not going well. "How are you, Doug?" I'd ask. He always responded, "I'm great! But I'll get better." Now there is no need to get better, Doug. You are "Great" forever.
Bill Hickey

In Loving Memory of an Extraordinary Grandfather

We gather our thoughts and hearts to honor the life of a truly remarkable man — a grandfather, a pillar, a legend. He was not only a man who beat the odds, but one who defined what it meant to rise above them. His strength, resilience, and spirit led him to make history — literally — earning a place in the Guinness World Records. But beyond the accolades and records, his greatest legacy was the love he gave and the lives he touched.

He gave back tirelessly to his community, never asking for recognition, only seeking to uplift others. Whether it was a helping hand, a kind word, or just his reassuring presence, he showed up — for anyone and everyone. His generosity had no limits, and his heart knew no boundaries.

To us, he was more than a grandfather. He was our foundation, our storyteller, our biggest cheerleader, and our gentle guide. His wisdom, laughter, and unwavering support shaped who we are, and that influence will echo through generations.

Though we grieve, we also celebrate a life so beautifully lived. He taught us to lead with love, to never give up, and to always be there for others — just as he was.

Rest well, Granddad. Thank you for showing us what greatness truly looks like. Your legacy lives on in all of us.

With love from all and too all who knew Douglas Dillard.

Dionte, DaMari, and Zahir 2025