Jerry J. Dils

RICHMOND, Ind. – Jerry J. Dils, age 77, of Richmond, passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, October 9, 2016, surrounded by his family. He was born on January 20, 1939, in Richmond, Indiana, to Charles L. and Mary C. Bechdolt Dils. Jerry graduated from Richmond High School in 1957, and earned a bachelor’s degree in Insurance and Real Estate from Indiana University. Jerry had a long and successful career in the insurance business, merging with Robbins and Matherly in 1967 to form RMD. He was a member of the Independent Insurance Agents of Indiana and the local Richmond Wayne County Area Independent Insurance Agents. Jerry was the Co-Founder of the Associated Risk Manager of Indiana (ARM). Jerry served on many boards and was involved with numerous organizations, including the local Wayne County Indiana Fishing and Hunting Conservation Club, Wayne County Convention and Tourism Bureau, Chamber of Commerce, Reid Memorial Hospital, County Commissioners, United Way, Wayne County Red Cross, Central United Methodist Church, Wayne County Zoning Appeals, and Employer’s Security Insurance Company. He was a member of Webb Lodge #24, Scottish Rite of Indianapolis, and Wayne County Tarum Shrine Club of Murat Temple. His honors include the Sagamore of the Wabash Award, the Independent Insurance Agent of Indiana Agency of the Year, and the Harry P. Cooper Jr. Industry Public Image Award. In 2014, he was inducted into the Junior Achievement Business Hall of Fame. Jerry enjoyed hunting, fishing, NASCAR, and spending time with his family and friends. He will be remembered for his quick wit, practical jokes, and infectious smile. Survivors include his wife, Judy Starr Dils; son, John Dils; daughters, Jessie Hovde and Jenny Durr; sister, Millicent ‘Cherry’ (David) Johnson; nieces; nephews; cousins; and many friends. He was most proud of his grandchildren, Carly Durr, Holt and Helen Hovde, and Grant and Ava Dils. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers, Jimmy and Greg Dils. A memorial celebration of Jerry’s life will be held at 2:00 p.m. Thursday, October 27, 2016, at Central United Methodist Church, 1425 East Main Street, Richmond with Pastor Tom Ream and Rev. Scott Bell officiating. Arrangements are being handled by Doan & Mills Funeral Home, 790 National Road West, Richmond. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: NRA Foundation, Inc., 11250 Waples Mill Road, Fairfax, VA 22030; Wyoming Wildlife Foundation, 1472 N. 5th Street, Suite 201, Laramie, WY 82072; Reid Foundation for the Hospice, 1100 Reid Parkway, Richmond, IN 47374; or Boys and Girls Clubs of Wayne County, 1717 South L Street, Richmond, IN 47374. Condolences may be sent to the family via the guest book at www.doanmillsfuneralhome.com.

Jerry J. Dils

January 20, 1939 - October 9, 2016