Mildred “Millie” Gardner Dillon, age 98, passed away on January 30, 2026.

Mildred “Millie” Gardner Dillon, age 98, passed away January 30, 2026, with family by her side. She entered this life on May 28, 1927, the daughter of Walter and Elizbeth “Lizzy” (Hardison) Gardner in Williamston, North Carolina. Millie was joined in marriage to the love of her life, Porter “Pete” Dillon. 

Millie’s ministry was well-known for her exceptional crocheting abilities. She created numerous blankets, many of which were donated globally in partnership with her church, the First United Methodist Church of Pell City, Alabama. Driven by her love of adventure, Millie enjoyed exploring, both the United States and far-off places around the globe with her husband while he served in the Army; together they visited nearly every state, Thailand, and Germany. She enjoyed having tea parties with her great-granddaughters, playing golf, cards, Scrabble, and dominoes. Millie was an incredible cook and baker, her specialties were always created with love from scratch; including strawberry cake, buttermilk biscuits, and yum-yum bars. 

Above all else, Millie cherished her faith in the Lord, and she was deeply loved in return by Him. Now embraced by angels, she has found a home among her heavenly family. Millie's unwavering belief that the Lord would provide brought her a life of peace and serenity. Everyone who knew Millie was truly touched by her kindness and the memories they shared with her will be cherished deeply in their hearts.
Millie is survived by her son, Rick Dillon and wife, Janice of Fairfield Bay, Arkansas; grandchildren: Tara Warfield and husband, Charlie of Branson, Missouri, and Ricky Dillon of Los Angeles, California; great-granddaughters: Ava Grace Warfield and Lyla Ann Warfield of Branson, Missouri; and niece, Sandy Tenney of North Carolina. 

She is preceded in death by her parents; husband, Pete Dillon; daughter, Vickie Dillon; sister, Faye; and three brothers: Wilbert, Randolph, and Ralph. No formal services are planned at this time. Arrangements and cremation are under the direction of Cremations of the Ozarks.

To leave a condolence or share a memory, please visit http://www.cremationsoftheozarks.com.