Delphinia Ross Dillard
Celebrating the Life of Minister Delphinia “Fennie” Ross Dillard
With hearts both heavy and grateful, we announce the peaceful transition of Minister Delphinia “Fennie” Ross Dillard, who departed this earthly life on February 28, 2026, at the age of 76. Though we mourn her passing, we rejoice in the assurance that she has heard the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”
Delphinia Geronia Ross Dillard was born on May 23, 1949, in Rocky Mount, VA, to the late Mr. and Mrs. Johnny (Loleader Callaway) Ross. From an early age, she carried a noticeable grace — a compassion for others, a reverence for God, and a quiet strength that would become the foundation of her ministry. She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 44 years, Roger Dillard; five brothers, J.W., Willie, Johnny “June” Jr., Charlie “Bruh”, and Kermit Ross; four sisters, Mamie, Mabel “Tut”, Florine, Annie “Liza”; her grandson, Valance; and several nieces and nephews.
Fennie’s commitment to God’s call became the guiding force of her life, leading her to devote herself to evangelism, discipleship, and service. Minister Dillard proclaimed the Gospel with bold faith and served faithfully at Greater Lilly of the Valley Apostolic Church. She loved playing the piano, singing, and attending church revivals and services. “Trust in God” was the song that shaped her walk and reflected how she lived. Whether preaching, praying, or comforting others, she carried a presence that uplifted and strengthened those around her.Beyond her call to ministry, Delphinia was a devoted matriarch. She was the proud mother of Stephanie Dillard and Vincent Dillard and stepmother to Carlos Edwards and Tyra (Marlo) Manns Barrett. Her five grandchildren — Val Dillard, A’Darion (Michelle) Dillard, Lance Dillard, Kayin Spencer, and Kylee Dillard — were the light of her later years, and her two great-grandchildren, Auri and Alayah, brought her immeasurable joy. She is also survived by her eldest sister, Hallie Mae Law. To her family, she was more than a minister — she was a covering of prayer, a source of wisdom, and a steady presence of laughter and love.
Delphinia Dillard also leaves to cherish her memory her church family; a host of relatives, including her nieces Lola, Mae, Inez, Mornet, Choneta, Monica, LaTosha, Lorianne, and Neicy; nephews Rodney, Anthony, Fitzgerald, Delano, and Kermit; sister-in-laws Lucy and Delphinia “Lady”; spiritual sons and daughters; and dear friends whose lives were forever changed by her obedience to God.
Minister Dillard lived a life poured out in service. Her footsteps leave a path of faithfulness. Her prayers continue to echo in the lives of those she covered, and her legacy lives on in every soul she encouraged to trust God more deeply.
While we grieve her physical absence, we celebrate her eternal reward. We find comfort in knowing that the same Lord she preached about, prayed to, and trusted wholeheartedly has now welcomed her home where every day will be like Sunday.
