**March 2, 1958 – February 15, 2026**

John Dail entered this world on March 2, 1958, in Brooklyn, New York, born to the late Shirley Dail and Howard Dail Jr., who both preceded him in death along with his brother Howard the 3rd, Marshal Artis, Phillippa Jones, Deborah Lewis.

From the beginning, John was full of promise and determination. Though he attended Catholic school and often shared humorous stories about those days later in life, his journey was not without challenges. John quietly overcame dyslexia, a learning disability many never knew he faced. He refused to make excuses and pushed forward, fueled by his love of learning and personal growth. His dedication led him to attend a specialized aviation high school and later earn his associate degree.

At Satellite High School, he was affectionately nicknamed "Romain the, ladies' man," it was there he met his first wife, Linda Hart, young and in love. They married in 1978 and that same year welcomed his only child, Ni-eesha La-Quin Dail. Though the marriage later ended in divorce, his love and devotion to his daughter never wavered.

Throughout his life, John wore many hats. For a short time, he followed in his father's footsteps as a taxi cab driver. He also served briefly on the police force before discerning that path was not for him.

On April 3 1985, John married Linda Edghil though their marriage ended after several years, they remained friends throughout the years.

Eventually, John found his professional career path at Verizon, where he began as a repair technician and worked his way up through the company.

Eventually, retiring from Verizon with over 30 years of exceptional service, John built a career he was deeply proud of.

Verizon kept him active, traveling all over from uptown to downtown, often using the time to call loved ones—when going from building to building - especially his daughter—never ending a conversation without saying, "I love you."

It was during his time at Verizon that John met his longtime partner, Hattie Burch. They loved living life and traveling together, they traveled to places like Jamaica, Bermuda, and the Bahamas, and spending time together at City Island, where they shared laughter over seafood and drinks. When home they enjoyed watching tv together, infamous lifetime movies, law and order (his favorite), old westerns, and of course going to the Casinos when out on the town!

Those who truly knew John understood that he was quiet, well mannered, gentle-hearted, thoughtful, and deeply caring. He loved music and dancing—often teased by his siblings about still doing the "grandfather hop." An old soul, he cherished the music of The Temptations, The O'Jays, Earth, Wind & Fire, Teddy Pendergrass, and The Spinners. Some of his favorite songs ncluded "My Girl," "I Can't Get Next to You," "Reunited (And It Feels So Good)," and "I'll Be Around."

John was not a perfect man, but he was a loving one. Though soft-spoken, he was like still waters that ran deep, often carrying his worries quietly while putting others before himself. He fiercely loved and protected his family, especially his mother, whom he affectionately called

"Mormie." If you spoke ill of his family or caused them harm, you might catch a glimpse of his temper—but that side of him was rarely seen.

In his later years, John found joy in gardening, growing peppers, tomatoes, cucumbers, and more. He made famously hot, hot sauce and a delicious shrimp salad. He loved cooking, hosting family barbecues, and enjoying steak and eggs at IHOP—often spending special time there with his granddaughter Jasmin, with whom he shared a close bond. Known as "JD" to those closest to him, John was often described as the bridge that kept the family together. He called constantly to check on everyone, ensuring each person felt loved and remembered.

John is survived by his beloved daughter, Nieesha Dail Williams; his son-in-law, Tremayne Williams; and his four grandchildren: Juan Jr., Breahna Williams, Jasmin Williams, and Elayna Williams, to whom he lovingly sent science experiment kits when she expressed interest in science. He is also survived by his great-grandchildren, Koen Zion T. Mitchell, 10 months old, which he was able to come to and see at the hospital when he was born and Adonis Khaseed Urla, 2 months, whom he unfortunately did not have the opportunity to meet.

He leaves behind his life partner, Hattie Burch, her 4 children and grandchildren, whom he cared for deeply; his siblings Vernon Dail, Sharon Bradford, Regina Dail, Aurelia Ellison, and Jerelyn Dail; with whom he loved very much and shared a special closeness with all of them. As well as a host of cousins, nieces and nephews, including niece Nicole Zamor, who held a special place in his heart.

After enduring a difficult nine-month battle following head injuries sustained from a fall at his home in Queens, John peacefully transitioned. Though his eventual diagnosis following the injury was Terminal Delusion, God granted him a moment of clarity and grace. On Thursday afternoon, February 12th, his daughter sat beside him and asked him five important questions. When asked,

"Dad, do you believe that Jesus Christ is the son of God?

Do you believe that he died on the cross for the remission of your sins?

Do you believe that he rose again on the third day with all power in his hand?

Do you believe that one day he is coming back for his people, Do you believe that you are a sinner saved by grace?"

The scripture reference: Romans 10: 9-13 verses was read in faith John then responded clearly, "Yes, I do believe." Three days later, he went home to be with the Lord. Today, we celebrate John's life, not his death. For we know that to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord. Rest now, Caring Friend and Uncle, Loving Brother, Beloved Father adored Grandfather, and Exceptional Human Being. Everything is well with your soul.