John Joseph Dills

John Joseph Dills, 82, of Rolla, Missouri, passed away peacefully at home on July 13, 2026.

John was born on September 26, 1943, in New Orleans, Louisiana, to Joseph N. Dills and Grace Magee Dills. He attended Drury College and graduated in 1966.

In November of 1963, John married Susan Peacher, and they were blessed with two children. On March 13, 1988, he married his beloved Jeanie Nelson and welcomed her three children into his heart and family. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, friendship, and service to their community.

Throughout his career, John served as Human Resources Director at the University of Missouri–Rolla, where he was known for his genuine care for others. Later, he built a business that allowed him to embrace his passion for creating things with his hands. His woodworking and craftsmanship left a lasting impression on those who worked with him.

John was a faithful member of Greentree Christian Church for more than 50 years and devoted much of his life to serving others through his church and community. An Eagle Scout and Scout Master, he also served as a member of the Kiwanis Club and taught Sunday School for over 40 years, touching countless lives. John found great joy in hunting, fishing, woodworking, and spending time with his family and friends.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Jeanie Dills; his children, Kristi (Todd) Hunt, Mike (Hannah) Dills, Step-children Cindy (John) Tummons, Tracy (David) Lillie, Craig (Katina) Nelson; his grandchildren, Paige Hunt, Maren Hunt, Mason (Elise) Dills, Ethan Dills, Cathy Tummons, Mike (Adelina) Tummons, Kierstyn (Matt) DiGiro, Nicole Nelson, Josh Nelson; and his great-grandchildren, Madelyn, Gianna, and Nathan DiGiro.

A visitation will be held on Friday, July 24, at 10:00 a.m., followed by a funeral service at 11:00 a.m. at Greentree Christian Church in Rolla, Missouri. A luncheon will follow the service. The service will be officiated by Chris Foster and Tim Cook.

Memorial donations may be made to Greentree Christian Church.

John will be remembered for his unwavering faith, generous spirit, and lifelong commitment to serving others. His kindness, wisdom, and friendship touched countless lives, and his legacy will continue to live on through the many people he loved.