Carol Gayle Jenkins Dillard was born on April 2, 1935, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to William Gayle and Myrtle Ione Johnson Jenkins. Gayle grew up with her younger sister Annette in Salt Lake City, Utah, with a short stay in Waco, Texas during WWII. Upon graduating from Salt Lake City High in 1953, Gayle attended Abilene Christian College before transferring to Drums Business School, thereafter assuming a position with the Texas Railroad Commission in Austin. During this time, she met a fellow young UT student, Max Murray Dillard, who ultimately became her husband and the love of her life. Married December 28, 1957, Gayle and Max were together for 67 long and happy years.
Gayle loved the Lord dearly, with her faith serving as a constant and positive guiding influence throughout her life. She taught Sunday school, attended bible study, cooked meals for Church members and the community at large, and sang joyfully at every church service. In equal measure, Gayle was a tireless volunteer who gladly dedicated her time, energy, and resources to charitable causes close to her heart, including Lifeline Chaplaincy, Arms of Hope, Kanakuk, Abilene Christian University, and the Salvation Army to name a few.
Gayle was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother and devoted friend who found delight in entertaining and serving others. She particularly loved hosting friend and family gatherings, always leaving her home open and impeccably decorated for whatever occasion might arise. Needless to say, Gayle truly enjoyed making those around her feel welcome and heard, with her life serving as a living testament to the unifying power of kindness, gentleness, patience, and grace.
Carol Gayle Jenkins Dillard passed away peacefully on August 19, 2024. Gayle is preceded in death by her parents, William Gayle Jenkins and Myrtle lone Johnson Jenkins. She is survived by her husband, Max Dillard; her children, Denise LaPosta, Pam Minter, and Julia Hayashi; their husbands, Matt LaPosta, Jack Minter, and Stuart Hayashi; her grandchildren, Lauren Johnson and husband, Breece Johnson, Ethan Minter and wife, Kayse Minter, English Minter, Logan LaPosta, Ashton Minter, Payne LaPosta, Ian Hayashi, Max Hayashi, and Will Hayashi; and her great-grandchildren, Jordy Johnson, Blake Johnson, Bronn Minter, Wrenn Minter, Greer Minter, and Hayes Minter. She is also survived by her younger sister, Annette Hale.
A celebration of life will be held at Prestoncrest Church of Christ on Monday, August 26, 2024 at 3:00 pm. In lieu of flowers we kindly request that you please make a donation to one of her favorite charities.