Henry Merle Dillard passed peacefully beyond the bounds of this world on Friday, February 26 while surrounded by his wife of 67 years and many of his children. Henry was ever the family man and delighted in his 8 children, 16 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren. His children and grandchildren happily remember many a road trip with grandpa.

Henry was ever patriotic and loved his country enough to join the Navy as a 16 year old. His military service straddled WWII and the Korean Conflict. After his discharge from active service, he worked at Kelly Air Force Base, reaching the designation of Electronics Quality Control Specialist, and retired after 33 years.

Not content to keep his gifts under a bushel basket, Henry became a permanent deacon in the Catholic Church and ministered throughout San Antonio for over  25 years, assigned to St. Stephens Catholic Church, but was also involved in prison and hospital ministries, community visitations and education, marriages, burials and baptisms.  Henry thrived in his service to God.

Henry is survived by his loving wife, Janie G. Dillard, and his children, Laura L. Dillard, Henry M. Dillard, Jr. (Sarah), Deborah K. Dillard (Francisco), Carl A. Dillard (Carla), Leslie J. Dillard, Audrey M. Pelkonen (Ron), Carol A. Pierce (Doak) and Barbara G. Radous (Kevin).  Surviving siblings are Allen Dillard (Mercy), Theresa Rodriguez, Edith Lopez, Charlotte Lara and Marcelo Gonzalez.  Henry is mourned by many, many family members and friends, community and religious circles to whom he ministered and gave of his many talents.

FUNERAL SERVICES

A rosary for Henry M. Dillard will be held on Sunday, March 7 at 5:00 PM at The Angelus Funeral Home.

A memorial mass will be celebrated at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church on Monday, March 8 at 10:00 AM after a procession from the funeral home.  A graveside burial will take place after the mass at San Fernando Cemetery, #2.

Family and friends attending memorial events are kindly requested to wear a mask to every event, including those outdoors.

For those unable to attend services, please sign the online guestbook