Lee Richards Dillon

Lee Richards Dillon 1955-2023

Lee Richards Dillon aged 67 left this world January 28th, 2023 in peace and in the gentle hands of Hospicare during her last days. Cause of death was Glioblastoma, an undiagnosed and inoperable brain tumor.

Lee was predeceased by her parents Mac Richards and Colleen Wallace. Her stepdad Charles Renton was also an influence and inspiration for Lee's deep love of animals. She Pampered her cats and dogs. When her recent dog Chloe visited Hospicare Chloe leapt into the bed and they laughed and snuggled. They just loved seeing each other. Lee was happy.

Her career began as an assistant in the Section 8 Housing Program in the old GIAC on Albany St. In 1988 she became Director of Tompkins County EOC Section 8 department.

Later, as Executive Director of Tompkins Community Action 2000 she brought Headstart Programs to Spencer Rd, Ithaca, Groton, and Longview Day Care Center. All together her career with TCA spanned thirty two years.

Lee is credited for the renovations of Corn Street Apartments and Chartwell House housing for low income and those in need. Her vision for a home for women became a reality in the building of Magnolia House and building Amici House both in Ithaca.

Lee used her fierce energy and wicked smarts to make programs grow and creatively used the scant funds provided to create programs for the homeless, needy, and less fortunate.

She is survived by her daughter, Colleen Dillon; brother, Todd Renton; ex-husband, Chris Dillon.
A celebration of Lee’s Life is planned for later this Spring at Garretts Brewery, Main St Trumansburg (Former Rongovian Embassy-where it all began).
Friends of Lee Dillon Face Book page available Arrangements have been entrusted to Bangs Funeral Home, online condolences can be left at www.bangsfuneralhome.com