Obituary: Eliza Jane Dillard

March 28, 1930 – April 5, 2026

Eliza Jane Dillard, a devoted mother, distinguished educator, and pillar of her community, entered eternal rest on April 5, 2026. A native of Middendorf, South Carolina, located just north of Hartsville, Jane was defined by her unwavering love for God and an infectious, joyful spirit that brought a unique radiance to every room she entered.

A woman of deep and active faith, Jane lived out the Great Commission through her lifelong commitment to her family, her church, and her students. Her excellence in the classroom was recognized early in her career when she was named the 1979 West Virginia Teacher of the Year, a testament to her dedication to shaping young minds. Whether in the classroom or at home, her gift for encouragement and her heart for service left an indelible mark on everyone she met. Her legacy of kindness and transformation will live on through her children and the countless lives she touched as both a teacher and a friend.

Jane’s memory is cherished by her children: Philemon, Denise and Randolph. She also leaves behind three daughters-in-law, 12 grandchildren, a host of great-grandchildren, and her surviving siblings: Hattie Mae Campbell, Alberta Brown, Mary Lee Richardson, Martha Lee Johnson, Judith Carol Campbell, and Teresa Louise Johnson, along with a host of nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Percy; her sons, James and John; her brothers, Arnold Lee, Richard James, John Henry, Joseph Beasley, and Thomas Wesley; and her sisters, Ruby Lee Sullivan, Alene Smith, Elmere Campbell, and Annie Mae Clay.

A celebration of her life will be held at 12:00 pm Friday, April 17, 2026, at Monahill Memorial Freewill Baptist Church (44 Laurelwood Lane Logan, WV 25601) with Rev. James Mosley officiating. Interment will follow in Guyan Memorial Gardens in Godby, WV.

A visitation will be held two hours prior to the funeral service starting at 10:00 am.

A repast will be held at 5:00 pm Friday, April 17, 2026, at Chief Logan Lodge (1000 Conference Center Drive Logan, WV 25601.)

Services are under the professional direction of Collins Funeral Home, Inc. of Switzer, WV.