Permilla Ethel Dillon

Permilla Ethel Dillon, 76, of Stevensville, MT passed away peacefully in her sleep very early Tuesday morning January 6th, 2026 at the Living Centre in Stevensville.

She was born October 23rd, 1949 in Little Falls, NY to Robert Lee MacArthur and Charlotte Bertha Lamphere. She, along with her older sister and parents, lived in New York for some time until eventually making their way to Missoula, MT. After that, the family welcomed five more siblings.

She graduated from Hellgate High School in the late 1960’s and soon thereafter married her first husband Richard Koepplin. They had four children together- Tracy, Sherri, Pamela, and Richard. She later remarried Dale Dillon of Helena, MT. They spent their marriage in Missoula, MT until his death in May of 2003.

Permilla was known to be a hardworking mother and caregiver. She cared for her second husband, who was disabled, for many years. Whether it was cooking, cleaning, or caring for the needs of others, Permilla diligently worked to help those around her.

She was a deeply spiritual person and was baptized as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses on July 24th, 1963. From that point on, she dedicated her life to helping others come to know Jehovah God and the wonderful future promises in the Bible.

Permilla had a deep love for people, and many called her “Mom.” She was always ready to help others in any way she could. She, and her husband Dale, were very hospitable; often welcoming others into their home.

She spent her last few years at the Living Centre in Stevensville, where she continued to share her hope for the future with others, and did her best to encourage those around her. The staff and residents often spoke of how much they loved Permilla.

Permilla is survived by her younger twin sisters, brother, and their families. She is also survived by all her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.

Her family would like to thank the staff and nurses at the Living Centre for their loving care. They would also like to thank all the brothers and sisters in the Florence and Missoula congregations who loved and supported her throughout the years.

Arrangements are under the care of Sunset Memorial Funeral Home and Crematory in Missoula.