| Date of Birth | October 15, 1948 |
| Passed Away | January 31, 2026 |
| Place of Residence | Andover |
| Home State | NY |
William R. “Bill” Dailey
ANDOVER – William R. “Bill” Dailey, born in Hornell, NY on Oct. 15, 1948 a son of the late William B. and Grace (Coogan) Dailey, died at home on Saturday (Jan. 31, 2026).
In 1997, Bill married Wendy Potter, who survives. Blending a family of 5 twenty-somethings and 2 preschoolers created some unique situations. But Bill and Wendy’s commitment to family and love for one another kept them smiling through it all. Bill is survived by his children: William (Kim) Dailey of Prairieville, LA, Kevin (Tricia) Dailey of Webster, NY, Brian (Amber) Dailey of Johnstown, NY, Adrienne (Colin Jones), Jeffery (Lisa) Dailey of Brookhaven, PA, Michelle Okoniewski (Aaron Whitcomb) of Latham, NY and Peter Okoniewski (Nicollette Carosi) of Otego, NY; his siblings: Sally Feeley of Hornell, NY, John (Mary) Dailey of Arvada, CO, Michael Dailey of Parker, CO, Richard (Laurie) Dailey of Belleville, PA and Barbara (Mike) Kramer of Hornell, NY; his grandchildren: Riggin Dailey, Katie Dailey, Ella Grace Dailey, Dan Dailey, Cooper Dailey, Kyle Dailey, Gavin Dailey, Colin Dailey and Brooke Dailey; and numerous nieces and nephews, cousins and special friends.
Bill was preceded in death by his parents, William and Grace Dailey; an infant sister, Peggy; sister-in-law, Elaine Lamping Dailey and brother-in-law, Joe Feeley.
A graduate of Hornell High School, Bill spent 36 years working on the railroad. He was proud that he started his railroad career as a jitney driver and ended it as a Vice President. Beginning on the Erie Lackawanna, he later worked for Conrail, Norfolk Southern and the Genesee Wyoming Railroads. Many years were spent as a Train Dispatcher both in Hornell and in Selkirk, a role in which Bill was highly respected. He often worked two and sometimes three jobs and skipped sleep so that he could provide for, and be present for his kids. Bill was well known for volunteering in the Hornell community, most notably 25 years coaching Little League baseball, and years coaching Babe Ruth and American Legion baseball.
But those who were closest to him knew that he cherished family above all, followed by his passion for horses, dogs and hunting. His favorite place was sitting at the head of the table at hunting camp. Bill loved old westerns and was a big fan of Willie Nelson. He found special meaning in Willie’s rendition of “My Way”. When asked how he had lived his life, he would always say “I did it my way”.
A gathering will be held at the family’s convenience.
Anyone wishing to make a donation in his name, please consider the Hornell Erie Depot Museum, 111 Loder St., Hornell, NY 14843.
The Bishop-Johnson & DeSanto Funeral Home, 285 Main St., Hornell is honored to assist Bill’s family with the arrangements.
Online condolences or remembrances of Bill are welcome below or on the Facebook page of Bishop-Johnson & DeSanto.
We will meet again someday on the other side, And I will bring the BB guns and John Wayne movies!
I have so many fond memories of Bill when we both worked for Dr. Beyer. He was a true “workaholic”. I also worked with Rick and Mike.
I knew and worked with Bill as the railroad names changed many years, never a cross word was had! Bill worked many nights in the dispatchers office when I was out on the railroad working alone on overtime, and the way he would keep track of me and others out in lonely and dangerous night was always greatly comforting and appreciated!
My condolences to Jack, Barb and the entire Daily family for your loss. Bill was several years older than I and I hadn’t seen him in many years however can still recall him playing ball with us as kids at the Little League field and at Corbin Woods. One of the things I remember most about him was that he was a genuine stand up guy. Rest in Peace Bill!
Very sorry to hear of Bills passing. Thinking of the family at this hard time. Bill was a 1966 classmate and will be missed by many. RIP my friend🙏
Bill was, down deep, the kind of dad other dads wanted to be like. A big man in so many ways. He had the strength and heart of a bear with a gentle smile and love for his wife, children and grandchildren. Hardworking guy who withstood many challenges and never showed his pain. As a neighbor there wasn’t anything he wouldn’t do for you and you’d wish for ten more like him. After visiting, on Your way home, you’d realize there wasn’t anyone quite like him. This man was taken too soon but left us with fond memories of his wit and some of the best hunting stories ever told.
God Bless you and your family Bill.
Deb and Tom Nardi
Our prayers and condolences to the whole family. May he rest in peace.