Jerrold "Jerry" Louis Dailey

Easy going, upbeat, and truthful, Jerrold “Jerry” L. Dailey was a happy man who lived a life rich in family. A man who lived from his heart, Jerry devoted his life to his roles as husband, father, and grandfather. With integrity and care, he met each day as a gift and each person as a friend. For all who were blessed to know him, life trials were always lessened, and its joys expanded for the privilege of sharing them with Jerry. Cherished by many, Jerry’s loving legacy will long live in the hearts of those he loved. Despite the obvious gloom of the growing conflict in Europe, 1939 held much to celebrate, including the end of the Great Depression, the premieres of the classic film Gone With the Wind and The Wizard of Oz, regular television begin to broadcast nationwide, and The World’s Fair in New York. As the US actively armed for war, families continued to center their lives in love and hope for a brighter future. Nowhere was that hope more evident than in the Vicksburg, Michigan home of George and Imogene (Randall) Dailey as they welcomed their son, Jerry, to their family on March 21. The Dailey’s only child, Jerry grew up in a home that was centered on family values and hard work. While his father worked at Upjohn, his mother worked at the state hospital. Growing up in the small rural community of Vicksburg, Jerry enjoyed spending many of his days playing sports with his friends. He loved most sports and eventually went on to play high school football, basketball, and baseball. Football proved his favorite of the three. Jerry proudly graduated with the Vicksburg High School class of 1957. Following his schooling, Jerry enlisted in the US Navy. After returning home from his time in the service, Jerry married Verna Vickery. And, though the marriage did not last, it did bless Jerry with his two sons, Scot and Chad. In time, fate gifted Jerry with the blessing of meeting the love of his life Marilee. Marilee also had a son of her own, Scott. The pair began dating and soon found themselves setting their eyes on a future spent in one another’s good company. Despite Marilee catching chickenpox from her son, On March 25, 1978, Jerry and Marilee exchanged their wedding vows, officially beginning their 41-year adventure together. Together, the happy couple created their home on Indian Run Golf Course. Jerry worked for Michigan Bell Telephone Company. He ran wires for big projects and ran a lot of computer lines over the course of his career. In his leisure time, Jerry enjoyed golfing and fishing. He played golf in almost every state, enjoying the travel along the way. His only regret was never hitting a hole-in-one. After retirement, Jerry’s love of the game led to him working at Indian Run. There he was known for always having hard candy and dog treats in his truck. The dogs around the course were big fans of Jerry. While Jerry loved country music and following the University of Michigan sports, his true heart’s delight was his grandchildren. Jordan, Hunter, Paige, Brenna, Joey, and Carli were his greatest joy. Jerry was a magnet for his grandkids; it was the only time Marilee was ever “second fiddle.” Calm, caring, and very cool, Jerry was a fabulous grandfather. In his eyes, they could easily see their value, and he never failed to support any of their endeavors. Clearly, the world feels less certain in the absence of Jerry’s steadfast presence. May we find comfort in knowing that each of us carries the best of Jerry’s legacy in our hearts and lives. Each time we cast for a lunker, shoot under par, hold our beloved’s hand, or provide a friend with a tasty treat, we celebrate the many ways Jerry continues to inspire us each and every day. Jerrold “Jerry” L. Dailey of Scotts passed away on Monday, December 16, 2019, at the age of 80. He is survived by his wife of 41 years, Marilee; one son: Chad (Brooke) Dailey, of Schoolcraft; stepson: Scott (fiancé Tomi Jo) Shrauger, of Jenison; Six grandchildren: Jordan, Hunter, Paige, Brenna, Joey, and Carli. He is also survived by his sister-in-law: Luanne (Bob) Heemstra, of Kalamazoo; daughter-in-law: Dawn Dailey, of Schoolcraft. He is preceded in death by his son, Scot Dailey. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, December 21, 2019, at 11:00am at the Lord of Life Lutheran Church. The family will receive friends at the church one hour prior to the service beginning at 10am. Please visit Jerrold's webpage at www.mccowensecord.com where you can read an updated obituary in the coming days, sign the guestbook, and share a memory and/or photo with the family. Those who wish may make contributions to the Lord of Life Lutheran Church and/or Vicksburg Lions Club. The family is being assisted by the McCowen & Secord Funeral Home, Rupert-Durham Chapel, 409 S. Main, Vicksburg, MI 49097 (269-649-1697).