William Manuel Dillon

In Loving Remembrance of

William Manuel Dillon, Jr.

Gifted to Us - (December 13, 1948 – February 9, 2026) - Returned to God

William Manuel Dillon, Jr., affectionately known as Manuel to his family and friends, was born

on December 13, 1948, in Cleveland, Mississippi, to Bessie Marie Carter Dillon and William

Manuel Dillon, Sr. At the age of five, he moved to California with his parents and sisters, where

he would grow up and build a life rooted in service, curiosity, and kindness.

Manuel attended Pasadena schools, including Lincoln Elementary, Washington Jr. High, John

Muir High School and Pasadena City College. As a young man, he excelled in track and field,

earning recognition as a talented high jumper. Even then, his determination, discipline, and quiet

confidence set him apart.

In 1969, during the Vietnam War, Manuel answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in

the United States Air Force where he served honorably in the U.S., Vietnam, and Okinawa for 6

years, 9 months, and 29 days. He rose to the rank of Sergeant Dillon with distinction. Before

departing for Okinawa, he married Jackie Simeon, beginning a new chapter of commitment both

to family and to nation. In 1974, he returned home after faithfully and honorably serving his

country.

Following his military service, Manuel dedicated many years to public service. He worked for

the County of Los Angeles in Public Works and later spent 30 years as an Environmental

Services Technician at Veterans Hospital in Westwood. There, he continued his life of service,

helping maintain a place of healing for fellow veterans.

Manuel possessed a brilliant and inquisitive mind. He had a deep love for nature and found peace

near the ocean, breathing in the fresh air and reflecting on life’s simple blessings. He was

especially passionate about holistic medicine and herbal remedies. Manuel was known for

always having a special remedy tucked away in his bag—ready to offer comfort for whatever

ailment someone might mention. More than the remedies themselves, it was his caring spirit and

encouraging words that brought healing. He genuinely wanted others to feel better, to live well,

and to find balance.

His bright smile and positive attitude were gifts to all who knew him. Being in his presence lifted

your spirits. He had a gentle way about him—steady, wise, and reassuring.

William Manuel Dillon, Jr. was preceded in death by his parents, Bessie Marie Carter Dillon and

William Manuel Dillon, Sr.; his sisters, Earline Wiggins and Walterene Dillon; his nieces,

LaVern Wiggins Parker, Bettye Wiggins Stubblefield and his cousin, Walter Scott Carter, Jr.

He leaves to cherish his memory his loving sisters, Juanita West Tillman and Tommye Martin;

nieces, Phyllis Wiggins Henry, Lynnette West-Cater (Elijah) Nadyne Wiggins Osborne (Derrick)

Reyna Martin, Kelli G. Dillon; nephews, Perry Wiggins (Barbara), Chester Wiggins (Polly),

Michael Wiggins (Michelle), Fred Wiggins (Karen), Tommy West, Jr., Robert Martin (Ariane),

Clifton Martin; cousin, Craig Carter, and a host of great-nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Manuel’s demeanor was a reflection of his unwavering faith, as he lived each day according to

what God requires of us in Micah 6:8:

“He has shown you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do

justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.”

His life was marked by service, strength, and deep compassion for others. He led by example -

offering kindness, standing for what was right, and walking humbly in his faith. His legacy

continues to live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.

Manuel will be deeply missed yet forever remembered with love and gratitude for the light he

brought into this world.

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