Dillis Edgar Ray Ward

Dillis R. Ward, age 86, beloved son of Dillis Ward Jr and Myrl Ward Ashby, went to his heavenly home on January 10th, 2024, in Oro Valley, Arizona. Dillis was born at his grandparents’ home near Hartford, Kentucky, on February 26, 1937, his mother’s birthday. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Mary. Dillis graduated from Hartford High School in 1954 and attended Western Kentucky University before moving to Tucson to attend the University of Arizona.

Dillis became interested in the funeral industry and graduated from the California College of Mortuary Sciences in Los Angeles in 1959. He later received a BA in Business Administration from Ottawa University. Dillis enlisted in the United States Air Force for four years, with a deployment of 15 months in Pakistan during the Vietnam War.

He returned to Tucson and resumed his studies at the U of A when he met Linda Larsen on a blind date. It was love at first sight, and they decided to marry after three days. They celebrated 58 years of marriage on June 12th, 2023.

Two children were born in 1968 and 1970, son Scott Ward and daughter Laura (David) Belshe, and later five grandchildren, Ryan (Rae) Ward, Tyler (Cara) Ward, Kylee Ward, Connor Ward, and Hannah Belshe, two great-grandchildren Abby and Robert Ward. Also survived by nieces Brenda Roberts and Linda Goss, nephew Dennis Szorscik, and cousins Kaye Dixon and Tammie Bishop.

After working over 50 years in the funeral industry, Dillis became known as somewhat of a legend, working not only in Arizona but throughout the US. He was recognized as an outstanding leader with extraordinary management skills and dedication to helping families in need.

Dillis was a very civic-minded individual who served the Glendale, AZ, community as president of the Rotary Club and Chamber of Commerce, Master of the Masonic Lodge, and member of the Scottish Rite, El Zaribah Shrine, BPO Elks Lodge, and American Legion. He served eight years as a Glendale City Councilman and was president of the Arizona Funeral Directors Association. Dillis, a lifelong member of the United Methodist Church, served on many committees for the churches he attended.

Dillis enjoyed antique cars, basketball, gardening (especially roses), reading, and his beloved dogs. He was known as a dedicated family man, a hard worker with a wonderful sense of humor, and a man of high integrity.

Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, January 20th, 2024, at Vista de la Montana United Methodist Church at 3001 E. Miravista Ln, Tucson, AZ 85739. Visitation will be at 9:30 am, and service will be at 11:00 am.

Arrangements made by East Lawn Palms Mortuary in Tucson, Arizona.