The Life & Legacy of Amber Denise Dillard

Matthew 19:14- “But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven.”

Amber Denise Dillard was born on July 14, 1989, in Gainesville, Florida.

Throughout her life, Amber faced many challenges due to cerebral palsy and severe scoliosis. Doctors gave her a life expectancy of only three to four years, BUT GOD! Amber exceeded every expectation and was blessed to live 37 beautiful years—a full and happy life surrounded by an abundance of love.

Amber was truly the center of her family’s life. Her voice, her beautiful smile, her unforgettable personality, and especially that signature eye roll were uniquely hers. Although Amber was nonverbal, she could say a few special words, including “bye,” “Hope,” and “Momma.” Those who knew and loved Amber understood that she did not need many words to make her presence known.

Amber attended Greenwood School in Jasper, Florida, beginning at the age of three and continuing until her graduation at the age of 21. She absolutely loved going to school and especially enjoyed riding the school bus, going outside for P.E., and listening to “Waltzing Matilda.” Coming inside after P.E. or turning off her beloved “Waltzing Matilda” could quickly bring out Amber’s fierce attitude and famous eye roll! Her favorite teacher, Mrs. Ford, affectionately called her “Matilda,” a nickname she continued to use throughout the years.

Following graduation, Amber continued to enjoy a life filled with happiness, laughter, and, most importantly, love. Everyone loved Amber. It seemed there was never a stranger who came into contact with her who did not quickly become attached to her. That was simply the kind of person Amber was. Her sweet and contagious spirit touched the lives of everyone blessed to know her.

Life will never be the same without Amber, but her family finds comfort in knowing that God makes no mistakes. On September 18, 2026, at 6:14 a.m., God plucked His beautiful flower from this earthly garden and called Amber home. She is now made whole and complete—no more suffering, no more sickness, only everlasting peace.

God blessed our family with Amber for 37 beautiful years, and now we return her to Him with grateful hearts for every moment, every smile, every laugh, every eye roll, and every precious memory she gave us.

Earth has no sorrow that Heaven cannot heal.

Our earthly angel has now become our angel in Heaven, watching over those she loved so dearly. Though Amber is no longer physically with us, the love she gave, the joy she brought, and the beautiful memories she created will forever remain in our hearts.

Amber leaves to cherish her beautiful memories her loving and devoted mother, Hope Dillard (Terrell Taylor); two protective brothers, Justin Dillard and Travis Robinson, Jr.; her doting and caring grandmother, Josephine Jackson of Live Oak, Florida; Johnny “Smig” Jackson of Statesboro, Georgia; three uncles, Johnny Jackson, Jason Jackson, and Clarence “Doozy” Dillard; two aunts, Canica Dillard Washington and Ashleigh Dillard, both of South Florida; and seven first cousins, Johnny D. Jackson, Choyce Jackson, Heaven Jackson, Angel Jackson, Amani Dillard, Autumn Dillard, and Maliyah Dillard.

Amber also leaves a host of loving family members and friends who will forever cherish her memory.

The family extends special thanks and heartfelt appreciation to Adrienne Michelle Burke Richardson, Travis Robinson, Sr., Amarcus McMillian, Lashonda Wilson, Kaitlyn Taylor, Armonie Stevenson, Pam Burkett, Pastor Diane Brack Evans, and Ronnika Robinson for the love, care, kindness, and support shown to Amber throughout her life.