In Memory of

Cecil

“Joe”

Dailey

Obituary for Cecil “Joe” Dailey

Cecil “Joe” Dailey was born on July 3, 1938 to Gardy Witt Dailey (deceased) and Mattie Mae Lacy (deceased) in Chillicothe, Texas. He spent his early childhood in Oklahoma and Texas before moving to California. He grew up in Hanford, California and later joined the United States Navy and served honorably in the Korean War.

Joe joined the Navy at a young age and was a decorated naval trumpeter, the only Black, first row, first chair in his unit. After his military service, he went on to have a successful career as a Sheet Metal Pipefitter/Mechanic working for the Railroad for more than 35 years, while also earning a Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration from Sacramento State University and an Associate’s degree in Business/Real Estate. He later worked for, and retired from, the Veteran’s Administration where he was recognized as Employee of the Month. Joe believed in doing your best and had strong work ethic.

Joe was an avid fisherman. In his younger years, he had such a love for fishing that he would pack his poles in his car and fish every day after work. He also loved to play dominoes and he took every opportunity to school his friends and family on the domino table. He had an affection for Jazz music and listening to the Blues. He fondly recounted getting dressed up and going to the cabaret to listen to live bands perform. Joe lived a full life! He enjoyed spending time with family and eating good food…especially greens and hot-water cornbread. Most importantly, he was a very concerned father, caring husband, and loving grandfather.

Children born from his first marriage are Willie Dailey (deceased), Danita Dailey-Adams, Michael Joe Dailey (deceased)(Victoria), Phyllis Dailey-Watson (Brad), JoVonn Dailey, Myra Dailey, and Darian Dailey (Monica). Joe also had a number of grandchildren and great-grandchildren with whom he maintained special relationships.

In 1985, Joe met the woman he would marry and spend the latter 35 years of his life with, Romona Kiel-Dailey. Together they raised three children; Keera JoShea Dailey, Jeramy Kiel, and Angel Paige (Samir). Joe and Romona were blessed to love and spoil their grandchildren; Aniyah Ja’lyn Harmon, Jalyn Nichole Paige, Xavier Keith Kiel, Jeremiah Paige and Tariana Paige.

One of the greatest joys of Joe’s life was his beloved grandson, Aston Mikiah Dailey. Joe and Aston spent countless hours together cruising in the Cadillac, watching late night movies or grabbing tacos from Jack in the Box. Aston meant the world to him!

In addition to his wife and children, Joe is survived by three sisters; Mattie Mae, Goldie and Shirley Ann, and two brothers; John and Vernon. Siblings that proceeded him in death are Elnita and Gardy.

Joe departed this life on February 8, 2021 with his wife and daughter by his side. He was well- loved in life, and all who knew him will miss him dearly.


Funeral Services for Mr. Cecil Dailey are as follows:

Coleman’s Family Mortuary Chapel

Public Walk-Thru Viewing
Saturday February 13, 2021
10:00am-12:00pm

Celebration of Life Service
Private Immediate Family Only
Saturday February 13, 2021
12:00pm


*Masks are required*

Coleman’s Family Mortuary along with the Dailey family will require all family and friends to wear their masks and use all safety precautionary measures as well as practice social distancing upon entering the services .

To share condolences and sign the guestbook for Mr. Cecil Dailey and family please visit www.colemansfamilymortuary.com