Gary Lee Dille

Gary Lee Dille, 78, passed away Thursday, February 12, 2026 at the Fairfield Medical Center in Lancaster, Ohio with his family by his side.

Gary was born December 31, 1947 to the late Russell and Jeannette (Webb) Dille in Lancaster, Ohio. He was a proud graduate of Lancaster High School, class of 1966.

Gary and his wife Barbara were once members of Faith Memorial Church, where they dedicated over 20 years working in the nursery, nurturing the spiritual growth of the youngest members of their congregation.

Gary's professional journey spanned 41 years at the Baltimore Paper Mill, before his retirement.

Gary and Barbara shared 59 years of marriage, during that time Gary’s favorite saying became “Yes dear.”

Family was of utmost importance to Gary. The love he held for his family was evident, as he made it a priority to create lasting memories with them during special times spent together.

In addition to his family and faith, Gary was an active member of the Lancaster Eagles Forest Rose Aerie 2120. He also enjoyed riding motorcycles, bowling, fishing, and spending time with dogs.

Gary is survived by his wife Barbara Jean (Sheets) Dille; children Karen Lee (Kevin) Reese, Angela (Tracy) McCutcheon, and Gary (Amber) Dille, II; grandchildren Leeah (Andy) Watkins, Jessie (Casey) Ware, Levi (Catelynn) Reese, Abby (David) Grubb, Tish (Matt) Enright, Max Dille, Sami Dille, Julia Dille, and Scarlette Dille; great grandchildren Mia and Macee Watkins, Caiden and Rilynn Ware, Evan, Colson, Christopher, and Lucas Reese; Tristan and Gage Grubb, Maliyah, Lincoln, and Titus Enright; brothers in law Danny (Kim) Sheets and Steve Fosnaugh; as well as many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents; siblings Gene Dille, Mary Kern, Barb West, Donna Sheets, and infant twin brother Jerry Dille.

A funeral service will be held Wednesday, February 18, 2026 at 12:00 noon in the Frank E. Smith Funeral Home, 405 N. Columbus St. Lancaster, Ohio 43130. Burial will take place in Maple Grove Cemetery, Lancaster. Family and friends may visit Tuesday, February 17, 2026 from 6:00 - 8:00 PM, and one hour prior to the service, at the Frank E. Smith Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 6704 Hagerstown, MD 21741.

To send an online condolence, and sign the guest book, please visit www.funeralhome.com.