of Benton, AR
November 16, 1936 - February 19, 2026
It is with great sadness that we announce the death of our loved one, Arthur Eugene Dillard, age 89, of Benton, Arkansas, on February 19, 2026 surrounded by his loving family.
He was born on November 16, 1936 in Crosby, Texas. Arthur (Gene) was a man of great vision and integrity. A lifelong entrepreneur and successful inventor, Arthur exemplified moral character, uncompromising ethics and a passion for life. His legacy will impact many generations to come. He loved his family and enjoyed traveling, hunting and snow skiing. He was a member of New Life Baptist Church.
Arthur is survived by his wife, Gloria Dillard; his children, Avis (J.C.) Halbert, Marcus (Renea) Dillard, Michael (Flynn) Dillard, Melissa (Dale) Adams and Richard (Deanna) Stiles; his former wife and mother of his children, Bobbie Fay Wright; his brother, John Ray Dillard; seven grandchildren and several great-grandchildren.
Arthur is preceded in death by his father and mother, Henry Grady and Mildred Isabell Dillard; his sister, Nancy Lee Johnston and his brother, Robert Lewis Dillard.
Arthur will be remembered for his wisdom and generosity toward others, as well as his belief that success meant more than business achievements - it meant making a difference in the lives of others. His laughter, guidance and kindness will be greatly missed but forever treasured.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Roller Alcoa Funeral Home.
Any donations may be made to the Parkinson's Foundation or UAMS Cancer Research.
The family wishes to thank the caregivers at Hospice Care Center for their compassionate care and support during his final days.
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8 Condolence(s)
Julie Flowers Paddie
Wednesday, February 25, 2026
Yall will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Rebecca Schug
Wednesday, February 25, 2026
Arthur was such a sweet man. He wife Gloria and were in my Life Group at church. I love sitting and talking to them both. Have been missing them due to his illness. God Bless him and his family.
Phil Watkina
Wednesday, February 25, 2026
He was always a joy to be around. He knew how to have fun. Watkins Family
John Dillard
Wednesday, February 25, 2026
Gene was a real mentor and guiding light in my life. Taught me wild and crazy ways to enjoy life to the max. Also how to break both arms at once trying to learn how to hang glide like me. Gosh that was terrible but I got a HOOT out of it. Love for eternity my wonderful brother. SEE YOU IN THE FUTURE. J R
Michelle, Ruthanne, and Rynley Deck
Wednesday, February 25, 2026
Uncle Arthur was so fun to be around, he always had a smile on his face. Thinking of everyone in this time of hardship.
Love,
Michelle + Kids
Kathy Quirbach
Wednesday, February 25, 2026
I don’t know him that well but he’s stepdad to my siblings. I met him once at Richard’s house for dinner. He was very polite and kind man. I am very sorry about his passing’s but he’s in good hands with the man upstairs now and hanging out with his family and friends he loved.
Gary Lynn Jackson
Sunday, February 22, 2026
My family and the Dillard family were very close, from the 1950s in Crosby,Texas and Hope , Arkansas. I am sad to hear of Gene's passing but I will fondly remember him as being a part of a family in a time and place I will always cherish.
John L Reich
Saturday, February 21, 2026
Sorry to hear of his passing. Rest in peace Neighbor.