Obituary of Gregory Lawrence Dillon, Jr.
Gregory Lawrence Dillon, Jr., 46, passed away peacefully at home on January 24, 2022. A private visitation was held Sunday, January 30th, at Codey Funeral Home, 54 Roseland Ave., Caldwell, NJ. A funeral mass was celebrated Monday, January 31st, at Our Lady of the Valley Church, 510 Valley St., Orange, followed by a private burial at Gate of Heaven Cemetery in East Hanover.
Gregory, affectionately known as Shorty Roc, born to Gregory and Linda (née Tutalo) Dillon, spent most of his life in West Orange, NJ, and was beloved by all. He was a gentle soul with a knack for lighting up a room, and effortlessly making others laugh.
Gregory earned an associate degree from County College of Morris and spent 23 years working at University Hospital. After the passing of his father, “Pickle”, Gregory worked tirelessly to keep his legacy alive at Dillon’s Tavern. He was devoted to providing a place for others to relax, have a good time, and enjoy the charm of the place his father had created.
Perhaps Gregory’s greatest role in life was being an uncle. Doting on his niece and nephews brought him immense joy, and he took great pleasure in spoiling them, forgiving them for only leaving him the orange flavored ice pops after a visit. His love for the San Francisco Giants and Georgetown basketball was unparalleled, as was his dedication to collecting baseball cards, toys, and other memorabilia.
Gregory is survived and mourned by his mother, Linda Dillon; his brothers, Patrick Dillon and his friend Patty; John Dillon and his wife Natalie; Brian Dillon and his wife Melissa. He will also be deeply missed by his nephews, Nicky, Roman, Brian; his niece and goddaughter, Scarlett; his godson, Tristan Ameli; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, and dear friends.
He was predeceased by his loving father, Gregory Lawrence Dillon, Sr., and his beloved sister, Dori-Lynn Tutalo Dillon; his grandparents, John Lawrence and Jean (née Costa) Dillon; and Domenick and MaryEllen (née McDonough) Tutalo; and his cousin, Larry Salerno.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Gregory’s memory to Our Lady of the Valley Church, 510 Valley St., Orange, NJ 07050, would be appreciated. He will be greatly missed.
