Andrew "A.B."

Dilworth, Jr

Andrew "A.B." Benjamin Dilworth, age 82 passed away peacefully on June 1, 2026 At the North Mississippi Medical Center in Tupelo, Mississippi, surrounded by the love of his family.

He was born on September 11, 1943 to Eartha Mae Johnson Dilworth And Andrew Lee Dilworth. After the death of his mother, he was raised by his grandparents, Ada Johnson and Kirby Johnson.

He graduated from Siggers High School In Shannon, Mississippi class of 1961. He confessed Christ at an early age and joined Poplar Springs CME Church, Shannon ,Mississippi , he later joined Union Baptist MB Church of Shannon, Mississippi, where he served in many ministries, including member of the Male choir, Senior choir, Usher Board, Brotherhood, Sunday school superintendent, Sunday school teacher, and for 30 years as chairman of the Deacon board.

He remained a faithful member of Union Baptist until his passing. Many sought his advice and he never hesitated to offer guidance, encouragement, and a listening ear. His faith was not only something that he professed, but something that he lived every day.

Andrew was a prominent pillar of the community , he served as "First Vice" President of the NAACP, a member of the South Lee County fire department, where he served on the board, a member of the black farmers Association, and a community baseball coach, where many young men learned the game under his leadership and guidance.

Andrew had a passion for bowling and was one of the first black bowlers to integrate Rebel Lanes in Tupelo Mississippi. He was on a county committee that formed a "March for justice" for Lee County, during a time of inequality.

One of Andrew's greatest blessings were the love he shared with his high school, sweetheart Bonnie Jean Hampton Dilworth. The two met and fell in love at Siggers High School. They married at the young age of 19 and built a beautiful life together celebrating 63 years of marriage. Their enduring love and devotion to one another serve as an example to all who knew them.

He leaves to cherish his memory, his beloved wife, Bonnie, three daughters, Sherry Fleming, Kay Dilworth Burch,( Dan), and Dutchess Dancer. Six grandchildren Rashad, Bria, Amber, Kayshia, Chris, Kara and four great grandchildren, Reaghan, Gabrielle, Johnny III, and Andrew (who was named after him).

He is also survived by two sisters Tangelia Crawford - Gates and LuCrisha Carson (Steven), One brother Erieke Dilworth; Two special people Juanita Trice and Pastor Christopher Taylor, whom he loved as a daughter and son, a close brother-in-law, Raymond Hampton (Esther) One sister-in-law, Barbara, and a host of other family members, one Uncle, Aunts, Cousins, Nephews and Nieces, relatives and friends.  He treasured his family and worked tirelessly to provide guidance, support, and unconditional love.

Andrew will be remembered for his unwavering faith, servants-heart, dedication to his family, and commitment to his community and Church. His life was a testament of faith, service, love, and leadership. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Funeral services will be held at Union Baptist M.B. Church in Shannon, Mississippi. Public viewing will begin at 11:00 a.m., and funeral services will begin promptly at 1:00 p.m. Interment will follow at Union Baptist Cemetery.