Joel Blaine Dilday

     Joel Blaine Dilday, age 87, of St. Johns, MI, passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 20, 2025, at University of Michigan Health-Sparrow, Lansing, MI.
     A Celebration of Life will be held for on Saturday, January 24, 2026 at 11:00 A.M. at Heritage Baptist Church - 1380 E Round Lake Rd, DeWitt, MI 48820. A luncheon will follow at the church.
     Joel was born in Martin, Tennessee on June 24, 1938; to Hassel and Margaret Dilday. After moving to Michigan, Joel worked for Oldsmobile as a forklift driver for many years until he retired.
     He married Elaine Lou Kinney, on September 1, 1956. . They spent many wonderful years together tending to their horses, mules, and hunting dogs. Joel and Elaine also loved spending time with friends on trips up north. Elaine passed away on May 27, 2014.
     He is survived by his son Randy, grandson Justin; siblings Marsha, Betty, Judy, and Diane. Joel was preceded in death by his parents, and his brother.
     Online condolences may be sent to www.smithfamilyfuneralhomes.com. The family is being served by Smith Family Funeral Homes - Osgood Chapel, St. Johns, Michigan.