Gary Dillard

Published 4:17 pm Monday, December 16, 2024

Gary K. Dillard, 76, of Bowling Green, Kentucky, passed away at his residence on December 11, 2024. A native of Rineyville, KY, Gary was born on January 17, 1948.

He was preceded in death by his parents Willam Carl Dillard and Margaret Allen Dillard and his beloved wife, Sharon Lee Dillard, whom he married in 1978. Gary was a proud alumnus of Western Kentucky University (WKU), and his love for his alma mater was evident in his lifelong passion for WKU sports. He was an avid supporter of the Hilltoppers, always showing up for games and events with enthusiasm and pride. Professionally, Gary made a significant impact on the Bowling Green and Warren County communities. He was employed at Monarch Environmental for over 20 years and he was employed at Warren RECC from 1998 to 2013, serving as President and CEO from 2008 to 2013. His leadership extended to numerous civic roles, where he worked tirelessly to promote economic growth and development in the region. Gary was the Bowling Green Chamber Board Chair in 1989 and was honored as Volunteer Board Member of the Year in 2004. He served as the Bowling Green Area Economic Development Authority (EDA) Board Chair in 1990 and was an active member from 1989 to 1991.

From 1998 to 2024, he was a dedicated board member of the Inter-Modal Transportation Authority (ITA), serving as Chair from 2012 to 2022. In addition, he was a member of the BRADD Board of Directors since 2013, where he served as the appointed Warren County citizen member and as Chairman for the last two years, completing his term this month.

Gary’s leadership was instrumental in the development of several key projects that have shaped the region, including the Sloan Convention Center, the National Corvette Museum, the TransPark, and the Anchor Project. Gary was also an active member of the Bowling Green Rotary and was passionate about lifelong learning. He was a dedicated participant in WKU’s Society for Lifelong Learning, always seeking opportunities to expand his knowledge and engage with his community.

Gary is survived by his sister, Karen Hunley (Carven), as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and in-laws, all of whom will cherish his memory for his unwavering dedication to both his family and his community. Gary’s legacy is one of service, leadership, and a deep love for the community that he helped shape. His contributions will not be forgotten, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, December 18, 2024 from 1:00 pm until 5:00 pm at J. C. Kirby and Son Lovers Lane Chapel. 820 Lovers Lane, Bowling Green, KY 42103.

There will be a private inurnment at a later date at the WKU Chandler Columbarium. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Sharon (Faulkenberg) Dillard Memorial Foundation Endowment at SKYCTC.