Atleane Dillard

ATLEANE DILLARD, a ectionately known as “AD,” “Around the corner grandma,” and Grandma Sugar, was born on November 30, 1934, in Egypt, Mississippi, to John William and Versie Lee Shaw. She was one of four children, William Shaw, Jr., Betty Shaw, and Mary Shaw, who all preceded her in death. At an early age, Atleane moved with her family to Chicago, Illinois, where she attended Jensen and Biedler grammar schools. She later received her high school diploma from Manley and completed two years of Junior college at Crane. During that time, she met her high school sweetheart, Earl Preston Dillard, who preceded her in death. To this union, four children were born: Anthony, Ronald, Earlene, and Preston Dillard. Atleane was the true de nition of a hardworking woman. She held various jobs throughout her life to provide for her family and ensure they had everything they needed. She eventually retired from General Electric (GE) at the young age of 56. Retirement did not slow her down—it allowed her to devote herself to what she loved most: caring for her family. She lovingly helped her daughter raise her children a er the loss of her beloved son-in-law, Alan Jones, Sr. “AD” was the heart and protector of her family. She didn’t play any games when it came to people she loved (especially those boys), and she made sure everyone knew it. One of her favorite sayings was “we don’t have ugly people in our family, take a second and look around y’all!” Her humor, con dence, and quick wit could light up any room. “AD” faithfully played her lottery numbers and was known for her incredible luck. She enjoyed celebrating every win, big or small, and never missed an opportunity to remind everyone to play their numbers. She was also ercely competitive and proudly earned awards for her Wii bowling skills. Family gatherings weren’t complete without her joining in the games, determined to win and having fun every step of the way. She loved challenging her mind by completing crossword puzzles, spending hours reading, and relaxing in her penthouse on the 6th oor, while watching what we a ectionately called her “toxic shows.” Her laughter, sharp sense of humor, loving spirit, and unforgettable personality brought joy to everyone around her. She leaves behind countless cherished memories that her family will cherish forever. On June 25, 2026, at 7:03 a.m., surrounded by caring loved ones, the Lord called AD home to her eternal resting place. Preceding her in death are her mother, Versie Lee Shaw; father, John William; beloved sons, Ronald and Preston Dillard; loving son-in-law, Alan Jones, Sr.; and two grandchildren, Ronald Jr. and Shaunte Dillard. She leaves to cherish her precious memories, her beloved son, Anthony Dillard, and her beloved daughter, Earlene Jones. She shared a special bond with her cousin, Peggy, whom she loved and treated as her daughter. Her rstborn grandson, Anthony Jevon (Tanika), Annette, Tammy, Earl, Tricey, Sherry, Quiana, Tanisha, Alan Jones, Jr., (her on-time grandson), Nina (Cory), Preston Jr., Damien, Patrice, Shannon (her lucky lotto clone), and Percivan. Her beautiful legacy continues through her 34 great-grandchildren and 12 great-great-grandchildren, all of whom brought her immense joy and pride. Among her many blessings was her beloved 4-year-old great-granddaughter, Cherish, who held a special place in her heart. Many deeply loved AD, and her legacy will be fondly remembered by a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and special friends.

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