Cora Jean "CJ" Dillard

Cora Jean (CJ) Dillard, 87, of Silverhill, Alabama, passed away peacefully on March 07, 2026, at her home surrounded by her family. She was a devoted wife, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend whose kindness and love touched the lives of everyone who knew her. She was born on November 28, 1938, in Mississippi to Troy Madison Dalton and India Estelle Yoakum. CJ grew up and resided in Fairhope, AL, for many years. She is a graduate of Fairhope High School with the class of 1957. She spent most of her life as a home maker with an in-home daycare where she touched the lives of so many. Throughout her life, CJ found joy in the simple but meaningful moments spent with loved ones, sharing meals, telling stories, and offering encouragement to those around her. She had a special way of making people feel welcome and loved, whether through her comforting words, her laughter, or the care she gave so freely. Many of her happiest moments were spent surrounded by her children and grandchildren, watching them grow and celebrating their accomplishments. Her home was often a gathering place filled with love, warmth, good food, and lasting memories. She is lovingly remembered by her children, Susan Smith (Butch) of Silverhill, Brenda Browning (Terry) of Silverhill, and Walter Yohn (Cortney) of Robertsdale, her sister, Helen Dalton Levin (Roy), her brother Richard Dalton (Sandy), her grandchildren, Heather Ingram (Lee), Kimbra Williamson (Krissi Rayborn), Chelsey Simpson (Chase), Miranda Stanton (Eliott), Kayla Harlow (Preston), Alyssa Gongre (Greg), Shelby Cook (Jeremy), Sarah Comstock (Jed), Cierah Yohn, her great-grandchildren, Dalton, Kayleigh, Molly, Ellyott, Lucy, Evelynn, Tyson, Xander, Kolson, Gunnar, Preslee, and Evander, and many extended family members and dear friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband of 38 years John (Jack) Edward Dillard, her brothers William Dalton, Byron Dalton, and her sister Bernice (Dalton) Ellis, and her Great Grandson Edward Joel Stanton. Those who knew her will remember her gentle heart, her strength during difficult times, and the unconditional love she gave to her family. Her wisdom, compassion, and faith were guiding lights to those around her. While her presence will be deeply missed, the memories she created and the love she shared will live on forever in the hearts of those who loved her. The family would like to thank Gentiva Hospice for their care and support. We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to the owners and staff at One-on-One Senior Care who devoted so much time, compassion, and love while caring for CJ. Your kindness and dedication meant more to our family than words can truly express. A very special thank you to “the girls,” Neisha, Ebony, and Adelyn. Through your patience, support, and genuine care, you became more than caregivers – you became family. The comfort, dignity, and friendship you gave during this time will never be forgotten. Our family will always be grateful for the love and compassion you showed every single day. The family finds comfort in knowing that her love will continue to guide them, and that her legacy of kindness, faith, and devotion will never be forgotten. A graveside service will be held on March 11, 2026, at 11:00 AM, at Silverhill Cemetery. Family and friends are invited to come together to honor and celebrate her beautiful life. Arrangements are entrusted to Cason Funeral Service in Foley Al

Cora Jean "CJ" Dillard

March 7, 2026

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Cora Jean "CJ" Dillard

March 7, 2026

What We Do

Flowers & Gifts

Plan Ahead

About Us

Resources

Obituaries

Grief & Healing

Contact Information

Obituary Notification