Lawmakers pay tribute to Dillon
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Dillon received the honor Monday morning from state Sen. Jerry Cooper, who introduced the bill on Capitol Hill.
“I’m overwhelmed,” said Dillon, after the resolution was read. “Everything I’ve done has been a labor of love and I’ve had a lot of help a long the way. I am very appreciative and don’t know what else to say.”
The resolution, passed by both houses of the General Assembly and signed by the governor, praises Dillon for his contribution to the citizens of Tennessee and Warren County. The purpose of such a resolution is to recognize “those estimable Tennesseans who have dedicated themselves to improving the quality of life for their fellow citizens.”
Dillon’s resolution chronicles his many accomplishments including his service in the Korean War and the Army Reserve, his career in the insurance business and his involvement in the civic, public and corporate affairs of Warren County.
His immense knowledge of Warren County and his 23 year tenure as county historian were also noted.
“He is an extremely giving person who often reaches out with compassion to people whom life treats unkindly, and he epitomizes the ideal of the consummate professional, dedicated community servant and reliable friend and neighbor,” the document reads.
Said Sen. Cooper, “He is someone who we wanted to recognize and who needs to be recognized. I discovered he has a lot of friends, not just here in the county, but across the whole state.”
On hand for Monday’s presentation at Union Planters Bank were many of Dillon’s friends and family, including his wife Sammye, as well as a several local business and government leaders.
Union Planters president Jeff Golden said idea for the resolution came from several conversations he had with Sen. Cooper. “This is something he and I have discussed for several months. We wanted to recognize him for the years of quality service he has given the community. I don’t know of anyone else who has been more committed to the well being of this community,” Golden said.