John Christopher Dillard, 57, of Monticello, died Aug. 31 at Jasper Memorial Hospital. Mr. Dillard was born in Stone Mountain. His parents were the late John Samuel Dillard and Melva Driver Dillard. He lived in Gwinnett County for a number of years before moving to the Jackson Lake area three years ago. He was a bus driver for Newton County Transportation. Prior to his job as a bus driver, John was a builder for 37 years for Almont Homes in Gwinnett County. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, riding his Harley, wood carving and living on the lake.

He is survived by his wife, Gaye English Dillard, of Monticello; son and daughter-in-law Josh and Jessica Dillard of Marietta; daughter Dana Dillard of Smyrna; step-daughter and step-son-in-law Krystal and Drake Chastain of Cleveland; granddaughter Tanner Dillard; and sister Valerie Dillard of Suwanee.

A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 11 at 2 Blue Heron Drive, Monticello. Jason Parr will officiate.