Jonathan “Jon” Dillworth, of Middletown, RI, passed away on May 27, 2026, at the age of 76.
Born on September 1, 1949, in Winston-Salem, NC, Jon was raised in Middletown, RI, where he graduated from Middletown High School and spent nearly his entire life. He became a familiar face and friend to many throughout the community. A humble Air Force veteran, he was stationed in San Antonio and Alaska during his military service. Following his time in the Air Force, he spent much of his career working at the Newport Naval Base, where he managed the Officers’ Club and built lifelong friendships.
Jon had a deep love for both photography and music. He always had a camera in hand and another hanging around his neck as a backup. He was always capturing moments both big and small. Family & friend gatherings, holidays, birthdays, parades, local sporting events, and everyday moments were preserved through his lens. Through his photographs, he created lasting memories that countless family members and friends will cherish forever.
Music was equally important to him. He loved collecting CDs, attending concerts, and immersing himself in the experience of a great song played through good speakers. Whether through photographs or music, Jon had a special way of holding onto moments and memories, creating a lasting soundtrack and visual record of a life well lived.
Anyone who knew him knew he was one of a kind. He had a quick wit, a unique sense of humor, and a personality that left a lasting impression. He wasn’t trying to be cool—he just was. Those fortunate enough to know him understood exactly what that meant.
Jon was predeceased by his father, William; his mother, Rosemary; and his brother, Greg.
He is survived by his son, Adam, and his wife Lisa, and their two children; his daughter, Ashley, and her husband Nick; his daughter, Brittany, and her three children; his sister, Dana, and her husband Tom, along with their son, Orion, and his family; and many extended family members and dear friends who will miss him deeply.
The family would like to thank everyone who has reached out with their love, prayers, stories, and support during this difficult time. Seeing the impact Jon had on so many lives has brought comfort during our grief and serves as a reminder of how deeply he was loved.
Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, from 4:00 PM-7:00 PM at the O’Neill-Hayes Funeral Home, 465 Spring Street, Newport. A graveside committal service will be held on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Middletown Four Corners Cemetery, corner of Turner Rd & Wyatt Rd, Middletown.
Family and friends are invited to attend and celebrate Jon’s life.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks you to take a moment to share a memory, photograph, or story of Jon, as those memories are among the greatest gifts he leaves behind.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Jonathan “Jon”, please visit our floral store.
This obituary is protected against unauthorized reproduction or redistribution without the funeral home’s or family’s consent.
