It is with sadness that the Department of Medicine and the Division of Cardiovascular Medicine at Indiana University School of Medicine announce the passing of our colleague, James Christian Dillon, MD, former cardiologist and professor emeritus of medicine for the school, on Nov. 15, 2023. He was 83.
Dillon completed his internship, residency and fellowship at IU School of Medicine and later joined as an assistant professor of medicine at IU School of Medicine in 1973. During his tenure, he served as a cardiovascular researcher for the Krannert Institute of Cardiology and authored more than 100 peer-reviewed articles. He carried a distinguished record both nationally and internationally, having lectured both across the country and abroad. Dillon also played a critical role in establishing the school’s interventional cardiology program, where he served as director until his retirement in 2004. Dillon was a cardiologist at Eskenazi Memorial Hospital, Richard L. Roudebush Veterans’ Administration Medical Center and the former Clarian Health Partners, now IU Health. Throughout his career, he enjoyed his role in teaching and mentoring medical students, residents and fellows.
Prior to joining IU, Dillon served as Lt. Commander for the U.S. Navy, where he served as chief of Cardio-Pulmonary Medicine and director of Med-Evac Operations at Camp Lejeune Marine Corps in North Carolina. His devotion to public service continued throughout his life. In August 2017, Dillon received the Sagamore of the Wabash for his commitment to public service and as a leading advocate for heart health in Indiana. According to former Indiana House Speaker Brian C. Bosma, Dillon played a critical role in bringing safety devices to Hamilton County, including the use of AEDs and severe weather sirens. From 1976 to 2004, he served as a member of the Indianapolis Mayor’s Committee of Emergency Medical Services and from 1974 to 1980, he served as chair of the Indiana Emergency Services Commission. After retiring from the IU School of Medicine, Dillon served on the Hamilton County Council and Clay Township Board.
Dillon is survived by his wife of 62 years, Susannah (Harger) Dillon, and their children: Dr. William C. (Sally) Dillon of Louisville, KY; John C. Dillon of Brownsburg, IN; and Matthew C. (Ammie) Dillon of Carmel, IN. He is also survived by his brother Daniel C. (Cathi) Dillon of Hickory, NC, sister Nancy (Henry) Pogue of Ft. Thomas, KY, and cherished grandchildren: Julia Dillon (Alex) Sholtz, Jack Dillon, Kate Dillon, Isabelle Dillon, Samuel Dillon, Becky Dillon, Cheyenne Dillon, and Tabitha Dillon.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Carmel Fire Department Gift Fund, 210 Veterans Way, Suite 200, Carmel, IN 46032 or to the Carmel/Clay Parks Foundation, P.O. Box 3881, Carmel, Ind., 46032. For more information, visit Flanner Buchanan.
