//cdn.lifestorynet.com/fh/obituary-default.jpg//cdn.lifestorynet.com/fh/obituary-default.jpgObituary
Dillard Smith, Sr., 69, of Battle Creek, MI, passed away peacefully supported by his family on Sunday morning, July 8, 2007 at Battle Creek Health System. He was born January 24, 1938 in Vicco, KY the son of Amon Smith and Eliza Jane (Williams) Smith.
Dillard had worked in the tree trimming business of Michigan Shade Tree for 4 years; then became part owner with his brother with the Tree Man Company since 1975 he had been actively involved for 35 years.
He married the former Betty M. Wood on September 19, 1959 in Battle Creek; however the marriage ended in divorce.
He is survived by three sons: William Louis and Cheryl Smith and Dillard and Louise Smith, Jr. all of Bellevue, MI; Tony Duane, and Kelly Smith of Battle Creek; two daughters: Cindy Lee Johnson and Nancy Ann and Jerry Kilgore, all of Battle Creek; 15 grandchildren; 5 great-grandchildren; two sisters: Pasty and James Wilson and Jaunita "Need" Baker, both of Vicco, Kentucky; one brother: Ardell and Wanda Smith of Kentucky; his former wife, Betty M. Smith; and his special friend, Francis Baird both of Battle Creek.
He was preceded in death by his father in 1943, his mother in 1976; two brothers: Clyde Smith (1987) and Shelby Smith (1972); and four sisters: Ophy Baker, Eva Farler (1987), Faye Adams (1989), and Arthelee Jinkens (2003); and a granddaughter Crystal Marie Smith in March 1987.
Dillard received his education in Kentucky and came to Battle Creek in 1957 from Vicco, KY. He was an avid fisherman and always kept his children working around the house. He made fun times for his grandchildren pulling them with his truck and a box spring mattress attached for the kids to ride on or the time he inflated innertubes with all the grandchildren playing in them and rolling down the hill. He enjoyed watching old Westerns and particularly John Wayne movies.
Visitation will be held at the Bachman Hebble Funeral Service after 9 a.m. Wednesday; where the family will be present from 1-3 and 5-7 p.m. Funeral services commemorating Dillard Smith's life will be held at 2:30 p.m. on Thursday in the Bachman Funeral Chapel with Pastor Steven S. Olmstead officiating. Memorial tributes may be made to American Cancer Society. Arrangements by the Bachman Hebble Funeral Service, a member by invitation Selected Independent Funeral Homes. (269)965-5145