James Howard Dillow, age 71, of Smithfield, PA went home to his eternal reward with his Lord on Saturday, February 25th, 2017, surrounded by his adoring family.  He was born in Anniston, Alabama on September 21, 1945.  He was the son of Howard and Priscilla Brady Dillow of Smithfield. He graduated from Fairchance -Georges High School in 1964 and then attended California University of Pennsylvania where he earned his degree in education.  On April 8, 1972, he married Marcia Sue Roderick, also from Smithfield.  They were blessed with four children.  Jim was a biology teacher in the Albert Gallatin School District for 35 years, as well as serving as athletic director, football coach and wrestling coach at various points during his tenure.  He enjoyed gardening, hunting, listening to gospel music, bird-watching and, most importantly, spending time with his family.

It is difficult to attempt a summation of a man’s life who had such a positive impact on the lives of so many people.  He was a supportive husband and a wonderful father who put his needs behind those of his family.  He led by example, always teaching his children the value of hard work, kindness, perseverance, truthfulness, forgiveness and compassion.  One of his greatest joys was spending time with his grandchildren, all of whom loved their Pappy very much.  His family was blessed beyond measure with his time, his wisdom, his prayers and his limitless love.  Jim was a man of God and his faith was unshakable.  He attended the Whitehouse Free Methodist Church his entire life and loved his church family.  He particularly enjoyed researching and preparing lessons for bible study class, always eager to read the word of God and share it with others.  He was a prayer warrior and trusted in the Lord with all of his heart.  As a school teacher and coach, Jim had a positive impact on the lives of so many students.  He was always approachable and cared about their welfare, both in and out of the classroom and on and off the field.  He had a kind heart that always brought out the best in everyone.  He was truly an amazing man who will be greatly missed by all who knew him.  His family takes comfort in knowing that he is free from the burdens of this earth and that they will one day see him again in heaven. 

He was predeceased by his father and mother, Howard and Priscilla Dillow and one brother, Timothy Dillow.  He is survived by his loving wife of 45 years, Marcia Sue Dillow, his adoring children, Aimee Guthrie and husband Alvin of Bruceton Mills, WV, Aaron Dillow and wife Amy of Smithfield, Darrin Dillow and wife Tina of California, PA, and Zachary Dillow and wife Tiffany of Smithfield, his four grandchildren, Colton, Seth, Aidan and Delaney and his two brothers, Leroy and Alpha Dillow and Jerry and Helen Dillow both of Smithfield, sister-in-law, Michele Dillow and nieces and nephews.

The family will greet friends and family in the Dean C. Whitmarsh Funeral Home, 134 West Church Street, Fairchance, Pa. on Tuesday from 6 to 9 p.m., Wednesday 2 to 4 and 6 to 9 p.m.  Additional viewing on Thursday, March 2, 2017 from 10 to 11:00 a.m. in the Whitehouse Free Methodist Church, 2125 Springhill Furnace Road, Whitehouse, Pa. 15478. The funeral service begins at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Roger Yeager officiating.

     Interment will follow in Mount Moriah Baptist Cemetery, Smithfield, Pa.

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