James Dills

James Douglas Dills, 79, of Spartanburg, SC passed away on August 20, 2022, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born at home on April 4, 1943 to the late Paul E. and Cleo Wilbanks Dills.

Doug was raised in the Saxon community and was later affectionately called the mayor and banker of Saxon. He graduated from Fairforest High School in 1961 and was a member of Future Farmers of America, which fostered his lifelong love of farming. Doug served his country in the US Army from 1961 to 1964.

After his time in the US Army, he joined his brother in co-owning Dills Garage. He took great pride in serving all his customers throughout the years. He was on the board for the Una Fire Department for over 25 years and was, at one time, the commissioner. He also served on the board of the Harry Hampton Wildlife Fund and was a past Grand Master of the Whitney Masonic Lodge. Doug was an avid hunter throughout his life and was a founding member of the Mobility Impaired Hunt of South Carolina. He was a member of First Baptist Spartanburg.

Survivors include his two children, Doug Dills (Myra) and Jami Dills Hughes; stepson, Jonathan Dills; four grandchildren, Jake Dills (Sarah), Myranda Rodgers (Shea), Taylor Thomas (Dylan), and Abby Caroline Hughes; the mother of his children, Judy Clark Dills; and special nephew, Steve Clark, who was instrumental in his care. He was predeceased by his parents; brother, Gene Dills; sister, Mildred Dills Fann; and son-in-law, Todd Hughes.

A graveside service will be held at 12:00 PM on Tuesday, August 23, 2022, in Sunset Memorial Park, 1955 Cannons Campground Road, Spartanburg, SC 29307, conducted by The Rev. Brian Redding. Visitation will follow.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions be made to Spartanburg Regional Hospice, P.O. Box 430, Drayton, SC 29333 or online at https://www.regionalfoundation.com/ways-give/hospice .

Floyd’s North Church Street Chapel