Dila Hassiem

Dila Hassiem, 55, of Burlington, North Carolina, unexpectedly entered eternal rest on Thursday, July 9, 2026. He was born on September 23, 1970, in Waterbury, Connecticut, to the late George Hurdle and Louise Gooch.

Dila graduated from W.F. Kaynor Technical High School in 1989. He worked for many years as a laborer with an asphalt company, where he was known for his strong work ethic and dedication.

Dila was blessed with a large and loving family, and he cherished every moment spent with them. He is survived by his loving wife, Ramona “Mona”; his sons, Duane, Julian, and Joshua (Gene); his brothers, Lawrence (Mischa), Aaron (Vashti) and Phillip; his grandchildren, Leniah, Apollo, and Elston; his mother-in-law, Beverley; his father-in-law, James; his stepmother, Cheryl; his step-grandmother, Carol; and a host of nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, and many friends he considered family. He was preceded in death by his parents; his maternal grandparents, Hester Mae and William; his paternal grandparents, Hattie Mae and Willie Sr.; his maternal great grandparents, Julia and Ernest; and several beloved aunts and uncles. He was also preceded in death by one of his favorite cousins, Darrell Crosby-Williams.

Dila was the perfect embodiment of a strong and committed spirit, carrying a physical and mental strength that inspired everyone around him. His strength was not an accident; it was a choice., respecting his body, eating right, and radiating a vibrant, vital energy that never seemed to fade.

But his physical presence was only a backdrop to his incredible intellect. He was an avid reader who loved expanding his knowledge. He never hoarded his intellect. Instead, he lived as a passionate disseminator of truth and a natural mentor. Additional favorite pastimes included playing chess, Scrabble, Words with Friends, fantasy football with his cousins, and spending time with his wife, family and friends.

His curiosity, universal mind, and love for family and friends will be remembered by all who knew and loved him.

At the explicit request of Mr. Hassiem, no services will be held. His family encourages you to remember Dila by sharing your memories with each other and replacing those tears with laughter.

1. A Life Well Lived
2. Dila was a man of quiet strength, steady in spirit and rich in heart. His wisdom was never kept to himself; he shared it freely, leaving others better than he found them. He had a smile that welcomed, a laugh that eased heavy moments, and a patience that reminded us that the best things in life are worth the time they take. As a husband, he loved with devotion. As a dad, he led with guidance and compassion. As a grandpa, he filled hearts with joy, creating memories that will be treasured forever. He found beauty in a good book, purpose in caring for his health, and delight in every thoughtful move across a chessboard— approaching life with strategy, grace, and quiet confidence. Though he is no longer by our side, his lessons remain, his laughter echoes, and his love lives on in every life he touched. A life measured not by the years lived, but by the love given, the kindness shown, and the legacy left behind. Forever loved. Forever remembered. Forever in our hearts.
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4. Original poem written by Dila’s Nephew, Ryan Hendricks