Sunset: August 16, 2026
Friday, August 28, 2026
3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Jones Stuart Mortuary
115 E. 9th Street
Texarkana, Arkansas
Funeral Service
Saturday, August 29, 2026
12:00 noon
Park Avenue Baptist Church
214 Seibert Street
Texarkana, Arkansas
Interment
Chapelwood Memorial Gardens
1001 N. Kings Hwy
Wake Village, Texas
Secession “Penny” Thompson-Dillard, a beloved matriarch, devoted servant of God, and cherished friend to many, passed away peacefully on August 16, 2026, at the age of 96.
Born in 1929 in Homan, Arkansas, to the late Lucien and Mary Thompson, she was the youngest of 11 siblings, all of whom preceded her in death. She grew up surrounded by deep family roots that shaped the extraordinary woman she became. She was the devoted wife of Jobe Dillard, Sr., with whom she shared 76 years of marriage, building a life anchored in love, perseverance, and shared purpose in Texarkana.
A woman of remarkable beauty, strength, and pride, she was a respected 34-year employee of Lone Star Ammunition Plant, where she retired after decades of dedicated service in the role of quality control supervisor. A hard worker in every aspect of life, she was equally a faithful giver, generously sharing her time, talents, and resources to bless those around her.
Her proudest legacy lives on through the vibrant family she raised. Her guidance inspired loved ones across various professions including educators, nurses, doctors, engineers, business owners, and world-renowned specialists. She was the steady heart of her home, a loving mother to 8 children and a proud, adoring grandmother across five generations.
Above all, Penny was a God-fearing woman of profound Christian faith and a dedicated member of Park Avenue Baptist Church. She walked through life clothed in dignity and with her spirit anchored in the promises of the Lord. To know her was to be held in prayer, uplifted by her strength, and embraced by her unwavering grace.
She was so much to so many. Though her physical presence will be deeply missed, her light endures in the lives of her children and all who loved her. Having finished her earthly course in faith and victory, she has been called home and rests peacefully with the Lord.