Frank L. Dillard

Lake of Egypt- Frank L. Dillard, 91, of Lake of Egypt, died at 11:11 PM, Sunday, May 1, 2016 at Duke University Hospital in Durham, NC. Frank was born on June 20, 1924 in Hertford, NC to Frank and Minnie Dillard.  He married Francis Aldridge in Spruce Pine, NC and she preceded him in death on June 19, 1991. He was a WWII Army Air Corps Veteran who fought courageously for his country while stationed in the Philippines.  After he was honorably discharged, he returned home and received a Bachelor of Art’s degree from Temple University and later graduated from North Carolina State University with a Master’s in Mining Engineering. He worked many years as a mining engineer for several area mines.  Most recently he worked and retired from Mid-Western Mining, which was formerly located in Marion. He was an adventurous spirit who enjoyed drawing, travelling, listening to big-band music and being on the water.  He was civically active as well, having been past president of the 345^th Bombers Group, a 32^nd degree Mason at the Marion Masonic Lodge and a member of the American Mining Engineers Society. Survivors include- Son- Michael L. Dillard and wife Melanie of West Frankfort Son- Cliff L. Dillard of Marion 3 Grandchildren: Ross Dillard of West Frankfort Christina Neff and husband James of Benton Craig Dillard and wife Marci of Benton Great grandchildren- Isaiah, Shailey and Carson Several nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, daughter- Dawn Horrath and great grandchild- Christian. The funeral services have been tentatively set for 1:00 PM, Saturday, May 7, 2016 at Blue Funeral Home in Marion.  Rev. Ivan Ryan will officiate.  Burial will follow at Egyptian Memorial Gardens in Herrin.  Military rites will be performed at graveside by the Marion VFW and American Legion Posts with assistance from the Illinois National Guard.  Visitation will be from 11:00 AM until time of service, Saturday, at Blue Funeral Home in Marion. For more information or to sign the memorial guest register, please visit www.bluefuneralhome.com.