Our dearly beloved wife, and mother, Denise Darnell Smith Dillard departed this life on December 21, 2024, from her home in Philadelphia, PA, surrounded by her dedicated husband and family. 

She joined The Church of Christ Written in Heaven in Philadelphia, PA early in life in which her father, Elder Milton Smith was the pastor at that time.

Denise (known as Nee-C) was born on April 6, 1960, in Philadelphia, PA to the parents of the late Elder Milton Smith and her mother, Thelma Smith. She graduated from William Penn High School, in Philadelphia, PA. After high school, she acquired the necessary skills to enter the health field.

Nee-C worked at Silver Lining Home Health Care, Wyncote, PA, Friends Life Care, Plymouth Meeting, PA, and Einstein Hospital Philadelphia, PA for many years as a health assistant. Her love and care for people reached beyond the four walls of the workplace. Nee-C received many honors for a job well done. If there was a need and she knew 
about it, you could find her there. She cared for so many people in her community. 

On July 9, 1977, she married her forever husband William Dillard, Jr. (Bro) from Kiptopeake, VA, and through this union, they were blessed with two sons, William III and Darnell. They were also blessed with five grandchildren. Bro and Nee-C provided a loving home for all who visited. They would enjoy laughter, good food, and good conversation.  Nee-C loved to cook and was good at it. Nee-C also loved to eat good food.

During Nee-C’s brief illness, God gave her loving husband the strength to care for her every need, and love kept him right by her side. 

Nee-C leaves to cherish her memories: her loving husband, Willam Lee Dillard Jr.; her two sons, William Dillard III, and Darnell Dillard; five grandchildren, Anthony, Ahmar’e, Serena, William IV and Layla; one sister, Benita Smith; three brothers, Henry, Gregory, Cardell; two brothers who preceded her in death, Carlton and John; mother-in-law, Deloris Dillard and four sisters-in-law. She has a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. We love you and will always miss you!