Donald "Dink" Dillard

Donald “Dink” Dillard, age 71, of Martinsville, Virginia, passed away on Friday, January 30, 2026. He was born on April 17, 1954, in Bassett, Virginia (Henry County), to the late Rufus Benjamin Dillard and Celia Dillard. He was also preceded in death by his beloved wife, Mary Louise Dillard.

Donald was a graduate of Bassett High School, Class of 1973. In his younger years, he enjoyed swimming and playing basketball and baseball. Before the passing of his wife and prior to his health decline, Donald—affectionately known as “Poppa” by his family—found great joy in attending Mercy Crossing Church in Martinsville, where he was a faithful member.

Donald was a dedicated employee of Sara Lee, where he proudly served for over 20 years.

In addition to his parents and wife, Donald was preceded in death by his brothers, Charlie Hairston and Ricky Dillard; his son, Jesse Ruvon Martin; and his daughter, Tilwanza “Tee” Taylor.

Those left to cherish his memory include his children: Reva (Damian) Wainwright of Martinsville, VA; Ralph “Red” (Alicia) Taylor of High Point, NC; and Natasha “Cha” Carolina of Phoenix, AZ. He also leaves behind ten grandchildren, six great-grandchildren; his brothers, twin Ronald (Martha) Dillard of Martinsville, VA, and Sherman (Dena) Dillard of Iowa; his sisters, Constance (John) Pilson and Sheila Easley, both of Martinsville, VA; a special friend, Vicky, who shared many moments with him watching westerns; and a host of other relatives and friends.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, February 13, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Bassett Funeral Service Chapel, with Elder Damian Wainwright officiating. Burial will follow at Carver Memorial Garden. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.

Online condolences may be made by visiting www.bassettfuneralservice.com.
Bassett Funeral Service is serving the Dillard family.