Jimmy Earl "Jim" Dillman

Jimmy “Jim” Earl Dillman, 90, of Emporia, Kansas, passed away on Veteran’s Day, November 11, 2023. Jimmy was born in Hesston, KS in 1933 to Dearmin and Sylva (Wenger) Dillman. As a boy he worked on his parents’ farm. During the Korean War, he enlisted in the United States Army.  While in basic training the war ended. Instead of going off to South Korea, Jim was detailed to White Sands, New Mexico where he was assigned to the Loki anti-aircraft missile program.

After his time in the US Army, Jim enrolled at Southwestern College, Winfield, KS, where he earned his undergraduate degree. While a student at Southwestern, Jim met the love of his life, Beverly Howard. They were married in 1962. Jim and Beverly had two children, David and Loretta.

Jim and Beverly moved to and settled in Emporia, KS. Jim worked at Didde Graphics and Kansa Corporation. He took time to complete his MBA at Emporia State University. He enjoyed fishing, gardening, and traveling. He was accomplished in making stained glass, of which, one of his pieces is on display in the chapel of Presbyterian Manor. He was active in the First United Methodist Church, Lions Club, Emporia Camera Club and American Legion. Jim volunteered for nine years; driving Emporia area veterans to the VA Hospitals in Topeka, Leavenworth and Kansas City.

He is survived by his son David Dillman, Ft. Worth, Texas, daughter Loretta Kirker (Tom) of Kansas City, MO and two granddaughters Dr. Megan Dillman, Tyler, TX and Ms. Zoe Dillman, Fort Collins, CO.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 55 years, Beverly Dillman, and his parents, Dearmin and Sylva. Jim’s four older brothers – Keith, Robert, William “Tom” and Willis “Gene” - all served in the armed forces and preceded him in death. His two sisters - Marjorie Craig and Beverly Gerding - also preceded him in death.

A visitation for Jim E Dillman will be held on Thursday, November 16, 7:00–8:30 p.m. at Roberts-Blue-Barnett Funeral Home. The funeral service will be Friday, November 17 at 11:00 a.m., at First United Methodist Church of Emporia. Christian burial will be held Friday, November 17 at 3:00 p.m. at the Burrton Cemetery of Burrton, KS.

Memorial donations may be made to The Jim and Beverly Dillman Endowed Scholarship Fund, Southwestern College, or First United Methodist Church of Emporia. Donations can be sent in care of Roberts-Blue-Barnett Funeral Home, P.O. Box #175, Emporia, KS 66801.