Loretta Dillingham

Mrs. Loretta Dillingham, age 76, of Mount Vernon, passed away on Wednesday, August 5th, 2020, at Landmark Nursing Home in Lancaster, KY. She was born on December 7, 1943, in Berea, KY. Loretta was the daughter of the late Earl and Elizabeth Blanton Roberts. As a retired Home Economics teacher of 31 years, her teaching career began in Harlan, KY, for 1 year before coming home to Rockcastle County to teach at Livingston High School for 7 years. Loretta then moved to the new Rockcastle County High School (what is now the middle school) for the remainder of her 22 years with 1 year at the current high school location. During her time spent in the classroom, Loretta—lovingly named “Mrs. Dilly” by her students—did more than just teach; she was a mother figure to her students and loved them as her own. She will be most remembered for her affectionate smile, contagious laugh, and gentle spirit. After retirement, Loretta enjoyed camping, Bluegrass music, crocheting afghans for others, and spending time with her grandchildren. She was a life-long member of Ottawa Baptist Church. Though Loretta’s earthly absence is met with bittersweet sorrow, her memory and love are forever imprinted on the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing her.

            Survivors are: her husband, Lonnie Dillingham of Mount Vernon; one son, Randy Dillingham and wife, Valerie, of Mount Vernon; one daughter, Lonetta Dillingham Daugherty and husband, John, of Mount Vernon; and four grandchildren, Nick and Natalee Dillingham, William Daugherty, and Cassidy Daugherty Campbell and husband, Alex.

            Funeral services for Mrs. Loretta Dillingham will be conducted at 2:00PM Saturday, August 8th, 2020, at Cox Funeral Home with Bro. Zandel Hasty and Bro. Buford Parkerson officiating. Burial will follow in the Ottawa Cemetery. Arrangements are by Cox Funeral Home where friends may visit after 11:00AM on Saturday. In order to protect those attending the service, we respectfully ask those in attendance to maintain social distancing and wear a face mask. View the complete obituary, sign the guest registry, or send condolences to the family online at www.coxfuneralhomeky.com.

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