Kateleigh Shelby Elaine Dillon
Kateleigh Shelby Elaine Dillion, 22 passed away Tuesday, October 13, 2026, in Roanoke VA. from a tragic accident. Born March 16,2004, Katey brought a vibrant light into the world from her very first breath. She was a person of immense grace and boundless love, known by those close to her for her unwavering loyalty, her gentle but energizing spirit, and her sharp wit. The impact she made on the lives she touched was undeniable. At 22, she was fearlessly embracing who she wanted to be in her own story, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and deeply meaningful relationships. Her dream was to pursue a degree in Nursing and become a traveling RN, combining her compassionate heart and love for helping others with her desire to explore the world. She dreamed of making a difference in the lives of others while experiencing new places, meeting new people, and seeing all the beauty the world had to offer. Her future was filled with so many hopes, dreams and her desire to help others was reflection of her loving heart. Her memory will forever be cherished by her devoted mother, Gwendolyn (Wendy) and Father Jearl Dillon Jr, who loved her fiercely and unconditionally. She is also survived by her brothers Jacob Dillon, Gabe (Megan) Rhoads, and Clay Dillon, precious niece Arwen Rhoads, grandparents Nonnie (Rhonda Ratliff) Ron and Ruth Ann Dixon, loving aunts and uncles Angela (KC) Hancock, Jackie (Mark) Washington, Jonathan Dixon, numerous great aunts, uncles, cousins, along with a beautiful community of friends that Katey built and loved like family: Ashley Terry, Alexzandria Spickard, Megan Smith, Aryahna Tyree, Sid Lecas, and so many more. She also leaves behind her loving godmother, Julie Morrison, and her precious fur baby Nila May (Tater). Katey was also preceded in death by her paternal grandparents- Jearl C. and Shelby Wright Dillon, PePaw (Phillip Jackson) Aunt Cynthia Dixon, and Uncle Jay Willard. Our sweet Meana Moo, You meant the world to your Daddy and me. You were our only baby girl, blessed to be a sister of three brothers and you held a place in our hearts that no words could ever fully express. You were loved more than you could ever imagine, and you will forever be our precious girl. As we navigate this unbearable heartache, we find comfort in knowing that God is no longer just watching over you-he is holding you in his arms. What a beautiful thought to cling to when our hearts ache deeply for you. Your bible filled with the passages you highlighted has become one of our most precious treasures. Although seeing them brings tears to our eyes and reminds us of you, it brings us comfort, peace and strength when we need it most. You will always be Daddy’s Katey girl and Momma’s Mini Me. No mater how much time passes, those will forever be our special names for you. Nothing will ever change the special bond we share with you. We love you more than words could ever say, more than our hearts could ever hold. Our hearts could never be filled because you were one of a kind and no one can ever take your place. We will carry you in every prayer, every memory, every tear, and every smile that reminds us of you. Until we hold you in our arms again, sweet girl, rest peacefully in the arms of Jesus. You will forever be our baby girl, our blessing, and a piece of our hearts that will always belong to you. We love you endlessly, Meana Moo. All the way to Pluto and back a million billion times and then some. Forever and always. Funeral services will be conducted 2 PM Friday, October 23, 2026 at Conner-Bowman Funeral Home with Rev. Denver Turner officiating. Interment will follow in the Round Hill Cemetery, Boones Mill. Katey's family will receive friends on Thursday from 5 to 8 pm at Conner-Bowman. Arrangements by Conner-Bowman Funeral Home & Crematory, 62 VA Market Place Drive, Rocky Mount, VA 24151. (540)334-5151
