Obituary of Herman Bruce Dillon

Herman Bruce Dillon passed away peacefully at the age of 80 on Sunday, May 28, 2023 surrounded by his family at his bedside. Bruce was preceded in death by his father and mother, Herman Tarter Dillon and Elizabeth Shepherd Dillon, as well as his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Howard and Dorothy Price. He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Phyllis Price Dillon, a son and daughter-in-law, Mark and Zella Dillon of Wytheville and a daughter and son-in-law, Kay and Ray Blevins of Wytheville. Bruce was especially proud to be the grandfather to four grandsons, Graham Dillon of Fairfax, Maxwell Dillon of Roanoke, Channing Blevins of Wytheville, and Benson Blevins of Wytheville. In addition to his immediate family, Bruce is survived by a brother-in-law and his wife, Tommy and Brenda Price, a sister-in-law and her husband, Becky and Roger Hudson, a nephew, a niece and several cousins. For the last month, the loving care provided by all of the Wythe Hospice nurses, especially Amy K, offered invaluable support to the family. In the grocery business for over 55 years, Bruce began his career at Shepherd’s Grocery before joining his father in ownership of Dillon’s IGA Foodliner and Dillon’s IGA Foodette. When his employment began in 1965, a loaf of bread cost 20 cents, a gallon of ice cream 59 cents, and a pound of coffee 89 cents. While the grocery business experienced continuous change throughout the years, nothing compared to the overwhelming transformation created when Virginia Lottery ticket sales began in September of 1988. The lottery created its own unique share of obstacles, but Bruce welcomed the challenge and in 1995, Dillon’s IGA enjoyed a newsworthy day as they proudly announced the sale of a million-dollar winning ticket. In his extensive career, Bruce displayed resiliency to overcome complicated challenges, flexibility to integrate modern innovations, and a steadfast devotion to serve the needs of his customers and the Wytheville community. Bruce’s favorite travel destinations included Miami Beach, Las Vegas, and of course, Myrtle Beach where he and Phyllis vacationed several times each year. As the grandchildren came along, a mid-summer beach trip became a family tradition which continued for over 25 years. The group enjoyed countless beach adventures including deep sea fishing, parasailing, “Top Golfing,” and Pontoon navigating along the Intercoastal Waterway. Perhaps the most treasured family memories were offered by simple pleasures including daily walks to the pier, competitive beach games, and nightly dinner excursions. A celebration of life service will be held on Wednesday, May 31, 2023 at Grubb Funeral Home with Reverend Tim Irving presiding. Visitation will begin at noon and continue until the time of the service at 2PM. Interment will follow at East End Cemetery. Flowers are appreciated or please consider a donation to Wythe Hospice of SWVA, 1155 North 4th Street, Wytheville. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.grubbfuneralhome.com. The Dillon family is in the care of Grubb Funeral Home in Wytheville, Virginia.