Dillard Michael Jones Jr.

Dillard Jones Jr. was born in Hamilton, Ohio. His family moved to Dunedin, Florida in 1985. He graduated from University of South Florida, USF in 1990. Dillard burst into Atlanta over 20 years ago and made his mark in the hospitality industry, working at Zoo Atlanta-as a member of the event planning team, then branching out to contribute to other event industries. He eventually branched out on his own creating his own business, The Concierge Guy. His slogan, “Leave it to Dillard and Consider it done.” Dillard took great pride in creating something significant on his own and working hard for its ultimate success. With the best personal skills, organization and not being afraid to take a leap, he built a strong business of his very own. Personally, he was one of a kind, Like the show Cheers, everyone knew his name. He would walk in anywhere and you could hear his name being shouted from across any room. He was loved by many in the community. His love of friendship was felt by all who knew him. Dillard left this earth on Saturday, August 8 but will be with so many of us for years to come. That’s just the kind of person he was. His smile, humor and generosity were contagious. He would want to be remembered for his love of friends and family, whom he made many memories with. His parents, Donna and Mike Jones. Sister, Melissa Bars and adorned nieces, Kathryn and Samantha Barrs will forever miss his light. His family resides in Dunedin, Florida. Dillard would make several trips there to spend time with family. They will miss his smile, his laughter and presents at the countless gatherings around the dinner table with friends and family. His nieces will miss waking Dillard by jumping on him at noon-when he woke up. He always woke with a smile and a laugh.

Dillard always had a plan. During his most recent challenging health experience, he wrote about his plan for HOPE:

“I owe a lot of love and appreciation to many. I’m back at the hospital as I type with complications but may be discharged again this weekend. The physical and emotional road to recovery will test me, my strength and my patience as I’m not one to sit idle or be doted on. The plan is to relocate for 3-4 months to my parents’ house in Clearwater, FL in the next few weeks once things stabilize. There I’ll find the appropriate doctors as need. My other main goal during this time is to recharge, release, regroup and lots of breathing. And my mom cooking!! My business as TCG is being managed by my amazing biz partner in my absence-which is a big relief. I’m so grateful and lucky to have my family support in this challenge. I hope to end the year better than ever- for me and this wacky world. I’ll update the journey! Including shaving this grizzly beard off! Good health and prosperity to y’all.”

Dillard would want all who knew him to remember to smile. Remember to love and remember to embrace life with passion. He lived his life with such love, courage, bravery and strength. His family is full of pride for Dillard and he will be missed dearly.

Dillard was preceded in death by: Peggy Arndt (grandmother), June Jones (grandmother), Donald Arndt (grandfather), Dillard Jones (Grandfather), Mathew Arndt (Cousin), Andrew Marcou (Cousin).

Dillard is survived by: Dillard and Donna Jones (Parents), Melissa Barrs (Sister), Trip Barrs (Brother in Law), Kathryn and Samantha Barrs (Nieces) and many other dear friends and family.

Services will be planned at a later date-TBD. We also plan on celebrating Dillard’s life by organizing an annual event in Dillard’s name.