Herbert F. Dillon

November 27, 1947 - April 25, 2023

Facebook

On Tuesday, April 25, 2023, Herbert Franklin Dillon, Jr. passed away at the age of 75 at University Medical Center in Lubbock, Texas.

Herbie was born on November 27, 1947 in Paoli, Indiana to Herbert Franklin Dillon Sr. and June Rose (King) Sutherland. He was a graduate of Paoli Community High School Class of 1965. In August 1969, Herb earned an Associate in Science from Vincennes University Junior College in Vincennes, Indiana. In May 1970, he earned a Bachelor of Science from Indiana State University in Terre Haute, Indiana. After working a couple years, Herb moved to Lubbock, Texas to attend Texas Tech University Graduate School, where he earned a Master of Education in August 1974. One of Herbie’s favorite pastimes was to collect sports memorabilia related to his alma maters. He was a lifelong Red Raider fan.

During his college years, he began officiating football and basketball. He “ran the floor” as a basketball official for many years, as well as trained and evaluated other officials. Education was very important to Herb and one of his greatest joys was that his four children all became college graduates. Over the years, Herb was a teacher, coach, administrator and mentor to many young men and women. He was also a wonderful friend who loved to tell stories about those who crossed his path throughout his life. He had an uncanny ability to remember the most detailed information and anyone who knew him would tell you he was a walking encyclopedia of all things sports.

Herb was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, John Dillon, his brother-in-law, Gene Crecelius and his grandson, Jeffrey Isaac Dillon. Herb is survived by his four loving children, Jeffrey Dillon and wife, TiTinisha; Rita Gongora and husband, Christopher; Alison Dillon; and Whitney Dillon, as well as their mothers, Jeanne Killebrew and Alita Owens. He is also survived by one grandchild, Amari Dillon; and three sisters, Joanna Crecelius, Jane Emily and Jennie Govero.

Herb’s children would like to extend their sincere appreciation to The Plaza at Lubbock Nursing Home and the medical staff at UMC Hospital in Lubbock for the care they provided their father during the last year of his life.

The family is planning a memorial service to be held in the summer months in Central Texas and asks that you complete this form to learn more information. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider making a donation to the JI Angels Foundation, in honor of Herb’s grandson.

Plant a Tree

On Tuesday, April 25, 2023, Herbert Franklin Dillon, Jr. passed away at the age of 75 at University Medical Center in Lubbock, Texas. Herbie was born on November 27, 1947 in Paoli, Indiana to Herbert Franklin Dillon Sr. and June Rose (King) Sutherland. He was a graduate of Paoli Community High School Class ofContinue Reading

See Condolences

Sorry for your loss .. prayers an thoughts for family an friends 🙏

HD was the best ever….always for you , always looking out for you, always trying to help you, yep, he was always you Love you HD

Our thoughts and prayers are with the Dillon family. Herb had a wonderful personality and the gift to make everyone around him feel like they were loved and appreciated. God bless.

I send my condolences to the Dillon family. So thankful for Mr. Dillon From Calvert to Denton to Lewisville. He has been a blessing to me and my family and I will cherish his memories forever. God bless, Coach Thomas and Family

Mr D and I go back a long way. He was always the brightest light in the room and lifted my and many other people's spirits many times. He loved his children so much - Jeff, Rita, Alison, and Whitney and was proud of their achievements, but most of all their character. He meant so much to so many people. He lived the life of a 100 different men. He will be missed but I know he knew Jesus and what the cross means. Rest in Peace Herb

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

What a guy… what a time he had in life!!! BEST friends and family & he loved them all. He & Corky are talking stats & watching, coaching… maybe officiating some of the greatest games ever played. After all, Heaven is the desires of your heart! His memory will live on! I am honored to call him my friend. I pray God’s richest blessings for his family! Their Dad never tired of speaking of how good, smart & accomplished they are. He loved them and was so proud of them all! God Bless You!

My sincere condolences in the loss of HD! He was a legendary figure and was loved by all in the basketball community. We had many memorable moments together and shared lots of stories and laughter. We all should truly celebrate his life well lived.

Dad, I miss you so much but I know you are in a much better place. I promise you I will carry your legacy on in our family 🙏🙏❤️

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.