Obituary of SD Dailey, Jr.

SD Dailey Jr, 81, resident of Rockledge FL passed away July 30, 2023 at St Francis Lifestage Care, Melbourne FL.

He was born on January 3, 1942 to the late SD Dailey Sr and Mary Montgomery Dailey in Peterman, Alabama. SD grew up in a Christian home and accepted Christ at an early age. He was baptized at Macedonia Baptist Church in Pensacola and was active in Sunday School and weekly services. SD graduated in 1960 from Booker T. Washington High School, Pensacola FL. Shortly after graduation and despite the reservation of his parents and big sister, SD enlisted in the United States Air Force. There he proudly served his country with many stateside and overseas assignments. When asked by anyone how long he served, he would gladly share that he served 24 years, 7 months, and 5 days.

After retiring from the military SD went on to work supporting the space program at Vandenbery Air Force Base, CA and later transferred to Kennedy Space Center, Cape Canaveral FL. In his last years of retirement, he was an avid bowler, usually bowling on 3 leagues weekly. He enjoyed time fishing with his sons, taking cruises with his wife (Lori) and watching movies, especially old westerns. He simply enjoyed life.

Loving survivors include his wife of 45 years, Lori Dailey; three sons, Steven (Andrea), Gerald (Tracy) and Darrel (Irene). Sisters Mildred Dailey Thomas, Lillie Dailey Woods; Brothers Willie Fred (Ellen) Dailey and Donald (Yauna) Dailey. Brothers-in-law, Steven Schultz, Thomas (Stacy) Schultz, and Chad Schultz; Sisters-in-laws, Tami (Steve) Bzdok, Joli (Steve) Swart and Kari Madsen. Grandchildren, Steven, Simone, Briteny, Tamara, Gerlisha and Christine and 8 great grandchildren and many loving nieces and nephews.

He never met a stranger so he also leaves many special friends, to many to name. You know who you are by the relationship you had, and you know how much he loved and appreciated you.

Memorial mass is scheduled for August 17, 2023 at 10:30 AM , St Mary Church, 1136 Seminole Drive, Rockledge FL 32955

Interment August 17, 2023 at 1:00 PM, Cape Canaveral National Cemetery, 5525 US-1, Mims, FL 32754

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that any charitable donations be made to St Francis Reflections Lifestage that cared for SD in his final days. St Francis Foundation 1250-B Grumman Place, Titusville FL 32780.