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Gary Dillard passes away

Gary Dillard on steel guitar

Gary Dillard, A.K.A. Beaver, has finally conquered cancer and entered heaven. Dillard was a former member of the Kingsmen and a musician extraordaire. He was known for his exceptional ability with the steel guitar, banjo, and most stringed instruments. A sweet gentleman, he was much beloved by Kingsmen fans everywhere.

Gary Dillard

Randy Perry posted:

One side of my heart is so sad today while another side is rejoicing. My great friend Gary Dillard (Beav) has beat the cancer and has received eternal healing today. We’ve been friends over 30 yrs. I’m just thankful for the time we got to spend with him back in July of this past year. Gary and his precious wife Judy Averette Dillard attended several services we were at in Tuscaloosa. We laughed and laughed telling old stories from back in the day as he played steel guitar with the Kingsmen and I was with the Perry’s.
Shout it out brother! I’ll see you soon! Thank God for Heaven! Please be praying for Judy and the families during this very difficult time in life.

SGNScoops joins with friends and fans of Gary Dillard, expressing our sympathy and prayers for Gary’s wife Judy and all their family.

Please pray for Gary Dillard, formerly of the Kingsmen Quartet

Greg Fox and Gary Dillard circa. 1980s with the Kingsmen Quartet

Many of you will know the name of Gary Dillard.

Gary Dillard with the Kingsmen 1984

Gary was the strings master of the mighty Kingsmen Quartet for many years, from 1974 to 1992.

From From steel guitar to banjo to harmonica, Gary Dillard is the ultimate instrumentalist. He left the Kingsmen to return to college, eventually earning his Master’s. Gary is a registered respiratory therapist, registered polysomnographer (sleep specialist) and a neonatal/pediatric specialist in respiratory. He and his wife Judy make their home in western North Carolina.

Today, Gary posted some news on his Facebook page that he is in need of prayer from all believing Christians:

“I see so people on FB asking for prayers, etc, and I promise I do pray for you. Well, it’s my turn now.

“I keep my personal life private.

Gary and Judy Dillard

“I am currently in the hospital recovering from surgery in which a very large tumor was removed from my colon, as well as 2 feet of colon. Bottom line….I have stage 4 colon cancer. I will start chemo soon after this healing begins.

“Plz keep me and Judy Averette Dillard in your prayers and I will keep you informed.

“Love to each of you.

“Garyd”

Please follow Gary on his Facebook page here.

Gary and Judy, we at SGNScoops are praying for you.