Cover photo for Ralph Lillard's Obituary
Ralph Lillard Profile Photo

Ralph Lillard

July 28, 1952 — September 20, 2024

Ralph "Wendale" Lillard, 72, of Benton, passed away at Bradley Medical Center on September 20, 2024.

Wendale was a life-long resident of Polk County and a 1970 graduate of Polk County High School. He

attended Patty Church of Christ when his health allowed. He had a servant's heart. He was a founding

member of the Polk County Civil Defense, now known as West Polk Fire & Rescue. He volunteered his

services there for decades holding many positions and becoming Lifetime Member of the department.

Wendale dedicated his early career as an EMT with Bradley and Polk EMS. He then entered law

enforcement graduating from the Tennessee Law Enforcement Training Academy in 1988. He worked as

a deputy with Polk County Sheriff's Department and a police officer at Etowah PD part-time, and

Chattanooga Airport Police, from which he retired.

Wendale was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Nina Mantooth Lillard, his wife, Janice

Ledford Lillard, his son, Jeff "Buzzard" Lillard, and his brother, Dwight Lillard.

Wendale is survived by his daughter, Jeni, son-in-law, Jay, his only grandson and favorite person, Jacob,

sisters Karen (Glenn) Kennedy, Kathy (Tony) Triplett, sister-in-law Carolyn Lillard and a host of nieces,

nephews, and cousins. He is also survived by his beloved sidekick, his dog, Bonnie.

In honor of his wishes, there will be no formal services. Wendale would want you to take the drive

through the mountains, spend time with family and eat the food in his remembrance.

Companion Funeral Home and Cremation Services are in charge of arrangements.

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