Jeremy Dilbeck, born August 4, 1974, passed away surrounded by the love of his family and friends September, 16, 2026. Jeremy grew up in Liberty, North Carolina, a place that, no matter how far life carried him, he always called home. He attended Hiwassee Dam Elementary School as a child and later graduated high school in 1992 from the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics. His love of learning carried him on to Rice University, where he graduated in 1996, and then to Harvard University, graduating in 1998. During his studies, Jeremy also spent a summer studying in Italy, one of his many experiences in life shaped by curiosity, learning, and a desire to experience the world beyond his own doorstep.

Following his graduation from Harvard, Jeremy made his home in Houston, Texas. Though Texas became his home for many years, Liberty always held a special place in his heart. Distance never diminished his devotion to his family. Even from hundreds of miles away, Jeremy had a way of remaining present in the lives of those he loved, and his family always knew how deeply he cared for them.

Jeremy possessed an extraordinary mind and an equally creative spirit. He was a gifted artist, an avid reader, a classic movie enthusiast, and someone who delighted in games that challenged the mind and brought people together. He loved learning simply for the joy of knowing more, and his intelligence was accompanied by a genuine sense of adventure and curiosity about life. Those who knew Jeremy knew there was always something interesting to talk about, something to learn from him, or a story worth hearing.

Jeremy was also an extraordinary member of his community and leaves behind many dear friends in Houston whom he loved deeply. The friendships and connections he built throughout his life were a reflection of the kindness, generosity, and warmth with which he treated others.

Above all, Jeremy loved his family. He was a beloved son, brother, uncle, great-uncle, and friend. His accomplishments were remarkable, but the measure of Jeremy's life cannot be found only in the schools he attended, the places he traveled, or the things he achieved. It is found in the people who loved him, the lives he touched, the knowledge and creativity he shared, and the memories that will continue to be told about him for generations.

Jeremy was of the Quaker faith, and carried with him its values of peace, equality, compassion, and respect for others throughout his life.

He was preceded in death by his father, Jerry G. Dilbeck; his maternal grandparents, Curt and Evelyn (Mashburn) Walker; and his paternal grandparents, Cloys and Lois (Payne) Dilbeck.

Jeremy is survived by his mother, Linda Walker; his sisters, Amanda (Jeremiah) Jack and Sara Dilbeck; his nieces, Kayla Jack, Kristen (Thai) Pham, Hannah Jack, and Faith Jack; two great-nieces, Ellie and Lizzy, and three great-nephews, Silas, Leo, and Zane; as well as many extended family members and cherished friends.

Funeral Services will be conducted on Saturday, September 26, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. from the Akins-Cobb Copperhill Chapel with Rev. Jeremiah Jack officiating. Music will be provided by Jennifer Danner. Interment will follow in the Zion Hill Cemetery with the following serving as pallbearers: Kayla Jack, Hannah Jack, Kristen Pham, Faith Jack, Tim Dilbeck, Dwight Dilbeck, and Thai Pham. The family will recieve friends on Friday evening from 5:00 PM until 8:00 PM.

Condolences may be sent to the family online at www.akinscobb.com.

Akins-Cobb Funerals & Cremations of Copperhill, TN is in charge of the arrangements.