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 at bishopdesanto.com or on the Facebook page of Bishop-Johnson & DeSanto.
