John M. Dillingham

SSG (Ret) John Marcus Dillingham, son of the late John Thomas and Geneva Mai (Williams) Dillingham, was born June 30, 1952 in Nashville, Tennessee where he grew up. He was a member of the Class of 1971 of Waverly Central High School where he graduated. In 1971, John began serving in the United States Army. He retired in 1987 after his many years of faithful service to his country. He had attained the rank of Staff Sergeant (E-6) and earned several awards and commendations. After retiring from the military, John began working as a Civil Service employee at Fort Leonard Wood. He was a security manager from 1987 until the present time. He was just getting ready to retire from his position. John was very proud of the fact that he continued his education later in life. He graduated from Drury College in Springfield, Missouri in 1991. He loved to follow politics, history (especially the civil war), and research, have discussions and debates. In his spare time, John enjoyed playing football. He was a very loyal Viking fan. He was very tough, but one of the biggest hearted people you would find. He was always helping others whenever he could. Most importantly, he treasured the times spent with his kids and grandchildren. As a young man, John made a very important decision in life and followed the Lord in baptism. He will be sadly missed, but fondly remembered by all those that knew and loved him. John passed Sunday, February 5, 2012 in the Missouri Baptist Hospital of St. Louis, Missouri having attained the age of 59 years, 7 months and 6 days. John leaves to cherish his memory his three children: John Dillingham of Lawton, OK, Aaron Dillingham of Joplin, MO and Zachary Dillingham of St. Robert, MO; three siblings: Bobby Dillingham and David Dillingham, both of the state of TN and Donna Dillingham of the state of UT; 10 grandchildren: John, Christopher, Elisha, David, Bridgette, Haley, Gabrielle, Aaron, Zachary and Makai; several other relatives and friends. Services with military honors were held at 1:00 p.m. Thursday, February 9, 2012 in the Memorial Chapels and Crematory of Waynesville / St. Robert with Chaplain (MAJ) Brian Palmer officiating. Military honors were provided by the United States Army of Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri.

John M. Dillingham

June 30, 1952 - February 5, 2012