Joseph "Joe" Dillon

Joseph “Joe” Dillon, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully in Leesburg, Florida on July 5, 2024, at the age of 76. Joe was preceded in death by his wife, Kathleen A. "Kay" Dillon and brother Bob Dillon of Houston, TX. He is survived by his sons, James (and wife Michelle) Dillon of Lake Mary, FL and Christopher Dillon of Gainesville, FL; daughter, Eileen Dillon of St. Petersburg, FL; grandchildren, Mackenzie, Makayla, Keirstan, and Julian. He is further survived by his sister, Patricia (and husband Bob) Morgan of Philadelphia, PA., along with numerous nieces and nephews. Joseph was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on January 30, 1948 to James Frederick Dillon and Sarah Josephine (Anderson) Dillon. He enjoyed a loving childhood along with his siblings, Bob and Patricia, nestled in a neighborhood of lifelong friends. It was during his youth in Philadelphia, Joe would meet the love of his life, Kathleen Keenan. Joe proudly served his country in the United States Navy as an Ordnance Mechanic, receiving the Navy Unit Commendation Ribbon, National Defense Service Medal, and Vietnam Services Medal for his dedicated service. Upon his return, Joe and Kay would move to southwest New Jersey, exchanging vows on May 23rd, 1970. They would spend the next 40 years together building a family. They would have been married 54 years this past June. In 1990, the budding family of five would move to Leesburg, where Joe applied his mechanical knowledge and love for puzzles (problem solving, I mean he really did love logic puzzles) in a rewarding career as a technician with the LeFebure Corporation. But his most fulfilling work would come after his retirement, relishing his role as a grandfather. Joe’s time with Mackenzie, Makayla, Keirstan, and Julian were some of his most cherished memories. Whether afternoons by the pool, playing board games or just sharing stories; he found immense joy in his role as a grandparent, doting on his grandchildren, creating bonds that will be cherished forever. As a member of St. Paul’s Catholic Church, Joe’s faith was an important guiding light in his life, leading him to generously support his community. For those close to Joe, his rigid exterior of quips and tattoos were a thin veil for an incredibly thoughtful, caring and selfless soul. Without hesitation, he sacrificed for loved ones, and strangers, time and time again. To know him well was a luxury enjoyed by too few. He will be greatly missed. Joe's family will hold a visitation on Tuesday, July 23rd at Beyers Funeral Home Chapel, 1123 W Main Street in Leesburg from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, and a Mass of Christian Burial will be held Wednesday July 24th at 8:30 AM at St Paul Catholic Church with interment to follow at Florida National Cemetery, Bushnell. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to the American Cancer Society. Arrangements entrusted to Beyers Funeral Home of Leesburg, Florida.

Joseph "Joe" Dillon

January 30, 1948 - July 5, 2024