Michael "Mike" Layton Dilts

Michael “Mike” Layton Dilts, 65, of Macon, Georgia, passed away on Sunday, January 5, 2025. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 PM on Saturday, January 11, 2025, at Sardis-Heard Funeral Home. Graveside services will immediately follow at Riverside Cemetery. A reception to honor Mike’s life will be held after the graveside service.

Michael was born on November 27, 1959, in Sewickley, Pennsylvania, to the late Maurice and Audrey Dilts. His professional journey began in the United States Air Force, where he served as an aerospace mechanic. His career took him across the globe, with assignments both domestically and abroad, including a post in England, where his first son was born. After relocating to Southern California, Michael embarked on a remarkable 35-year career in aerospace, working with McDonnell Douglas and the Boeing Company. His expertise and dedication led him and his wife, Laura, to live in Macon, Georgia, and Everett, Washington, before ultimately settling in Macon, where they created their forever home. At the time of his passing, Michael was contributing to the BCF program, working primarily in Jinan, China. In his personal life, Michael found true joy in spending time with family and friends. He was known for his warmth, generosity, and love of sharing meals, especially around the barbecue or while serving slices of his famous “Dilts Pizza.” He cherished traveling, both locally and abroad, and formed countless friendships along the way. A devoted sports fan and former athlete, Michael could often be found cheering for his Pittsburgh Steelers, the Los Angeles Lakers, or the next big game. His children will forever remember his kind and welcoming nature, his forgiving wisdom, and the countless memories he created—from heartwarming Christmas mornings to entertaining antics that brought laughter to every school recital and fundraiser. Michael’s legacy of love, humor, and devotion will be carried forward by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Michael is survived by his wife, Laura Dilts; his sons, Nicholas Layton Dilts (Amber) of Knoxville, Tennessee, Erik Alexander Fernandez (Victoria Burkhead) of Olympia, Washington, Elliot James Fernandez of Macon, Georgia, and Oliver Mitchell Dilts of Macon, Georgia; his grandchildren Jaymason Layton Dilts, Mara Lee Justis Dilts, Maeve Emerson Dilts, Mylah Rose Dilts; and his sister, Melissa Willig of Cerritos, California, his aunt Denise Smith (John) of Augusta, Georgia. He is preceded in death by his parents.

Please visit www.sardisheardfunerals.com to express your condolences.

Sardis-Heard Funeral Home, 6125 Houston Road, Macon, Georgia 31216, has charge of the arrangements.