Jerry Jay Dillinger

Jerry Jay Dillinger age 81, of Gillette passed away at his home on Friday, August 22, 2025. Funeral arrangements are pending with Gillette Memorial Chapel.

In Loving Memory of Jerry Jay Dillinger August 22, 2025

At 81 and a half years old, Jerry Jay Dillinger left this world peacefully at home, with his daughter by his side, on Friday, August 22, 2025. He departed to reunite with his beloved wife and son, whom he missed dearly.

Born in Gillette, Wyoming, Jerry was raised in the ranching family of Bill and Ruby Dillinger. He spent his early years in the Rozet and Keyhole areas, surrounded by his parents, his brother Jake, and a lively circle of aunts, uncles, and cousins. Life wasn’t always easy—he hated the cold—but he took pride in the cattle he raised, even though he never returned to ranching. And if you asked him, he’d tell you: he was quite the runner. He ran everywhere.

Jerry graduated from Moorcroft High School before being drafted into the U.S. Army. He served proudly in Vietnam with the 552nd Military Police Company. Though the” war was hell”, it also gave him lifelong friendships. For years, he and his fellow veterans gathered for reunions, sharing stories, laughter, and memories that never faded. While stationed overseas, Jerry received the dreaded “Dear John” letter from a girl he’d hoped was waiting for him back home. We felt for him—but my brother and I weren’t too torn up. That twist of fate led him to our mom.

After his discharge, Jerry’s brother Jake married Mom’s friend Connie, and soon after, Mom and Dad found each other. A few years later, they started their own family. I came first, followed by my brother three years and nine months later.

Dad worked tirelessly for his family. His passion? Dirt, dozers, and building solid locations. He was one of the best, sought after and respected in the oil patch and beyond, where the hours were long and the work relentless. He spent his longest stretches with Osborne Brothers and later Earthworks, retiring at the age of 80. That’s right—80! He used whatever means necessary to climb into his equipment, especially his favorite dozer, “Goldie.” Their relationship was love-hate but mostly love. He was disappointed they couldn’t retire together. Dad sure missed his work families. They were very important to him.

Over the years, Dad mentored many apprentices, hauling them around and teaching them the ropes. Apologies to those who endured the smoke-filled truck rides—he meant well.

When Mom passed away 11 years ago, Dad tried to be tough. But that loss cut deep. Then, seven years later, when my brother passed, it hit even harder. His steps slowed, but he kept moving—because “what else am I supposed to do”.

You can bet your bottom dollar Dad would never turn down a breakfast at Lula Belle’s especially if it were with his family.

For the past 11 years, my family and I took Dad on adventures. Last year was especially lively: two camping trips, four-wheeling, a visit to Powell to see his brother and sister-in-law, and a big Christmas trip to Florida full of shenanigans. Though his body grew tired, his spirit never did. In his mind, he was still in his twenties—and he tried like heck to live that way.

Jerry Jay Dillinger was a man of grit, humor, and heart. He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, deep love, and unforgettable stories. We’ll miss him fiercely—but we’ll carry him with us, always.

Jerry Jay was met in Heaven by his wife Kathie Jean, his son Gerey Dean, his parents William Raymond and Ruby Wilma, his loyal crew of dogs Sarge, Buddy, and Bear as well as his trusty steed, Rex. Among other family and friends.

He left behind for another day, his daughter Jerri Lynn, son-in-law Richard Thane,

Grandson Matthew Aaron (Brandi Lea), Grandson Ryan Gavyn (Tira Lisha),

Granddaughter Devyn Michae (Caleb Joshua)

Great-grands Alex Westley, Olivia Aaryn, Kynzlie Jolie, Bridger Todd, Nova Rae aka “Red”

And “Wild Man” Rowyn Jaxx to Gramps. As well as sweet girl on the way who will have all the love in Heaven cheering her on as she makes her way to us.

Daughter-in-Law Heather Lee, Granddaughter Kylie Alexandria (Kenyan Lee),

Grandson Kaelin Alijah

Great-grandkiddos Karter Reid, Landri Quinn, Kamden Wayne, and Auden Vera

His brother Jake (Connie) Dillinger

As well as numerous cherished family and friends.

Music often tells a story. These tell some of Dad’s.

“Like a Rock” Bob Seger

“I thought I was tough” Craig Morgan

“Don’t Let the Old Man In” Toby Kieth

“Where Rainbows Never Die” The Steel Drivers

My family speaks to me through music. Never doubt your loved ones are always around.

Dad and I would sincerely like to thank Campbell County Home Health and Hospice, Kindred Souls of Wyoming, Paula Monlux, Brittni Dale and the rest of the team at the Gillette VA Clinic for the wonderful care they took of Dad and the endless support they offered me.

This was written with the help of AI as mine was over six and half page’s front to back and going strong before my family made me stop.

How do you sum up somebody, who they were, their life, in a few short paragraphs?

My dad was quite a Person; in all its beauty and magic…and in its flaws. He was here and he left an impact on those who knew him. And maybe even some that didn’t.

He had time in the day for everybody… even the telemarketer at 8:30 at night… for an hour or more…on the landline. Just hang up Jerry my mom would say.

Just hang it up……. He never did.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date to allow his families the time they need to grieve his absence so we can all join together to celebrate with joy his life.