Guy Lynn Dailey

Guy Lynn Dailey, Sorrento, FL passed away February 8, 2025, surrounded by family while hearing Amazing Grace, his favorite hymn to play on his banjammer. He died from service-connected illnesses and complications from hip replacement surgery following a fall. Guy was born in Columbus, OH, on September 22, 1949, to Ronald and Betty Dailey. The family moved to Florida where he grew up in Hollywood. Immediately upon graduation from South Broward High School, Guy enlisted in the US Army and served three tours of duty in Vietnam. He was proud of his military service and often said "the price of freedom is sacrifice."
Guy met his future wife, Trudy Martin, at Broward Community College when he told her a joke. They were married May 24, 1980, after graduating from University of Florida and were in each other lives for over 52 years. Guy had one son Matthew, who he often said was his biggest accomplishment.
After spending years in sales, Guy decided he wanted to serve and protect his community. At the age of 40 he enrolled in Lake Technical College's law enforcement program. He retired as a detective from Mount Dora Police Department in 2008.
Guy was a life-long Gator football fan and a fraternity brother of Sigma Phi Epsilon. He was an adventurist with over 550 sky diving jumps. Sailing Compac Yachts and having 16 dogs especially labs and goldens gave him enjoyment. He loved fishing, canoeing, deer hunting in the Ocala National Forest, and camping. He spent many years surfing in New Smyrna Beach with Matt and their surfing buddies. Guy was the proud owner of a 57 Chevy that he restored with Matt. Guy was often compared to a cat with nine lives since he defied several near-death experiences – surviving a parachute malfunction which shattered his left heel; being thrown into the Ocoee River while white water rafting, and beating the odds when hit by a garbage truck while bicycling and sustaining serious injuries that forever redefined his life.
Over time, Guy discovered new passions. He enjoyed mountain music while playing a dulcimer and banjammer. He became proficient at wood carving, crafting wood spirits on canes and hiking sticks and was delighted to gift them to friends and veterans. He loved the Smoky Mountains and looked forward to camping in his Airstream trailer at Tumbling Waters Campground in Almond, NC.
Guy is survived by his wife of 44 years, Trudy; his son Matthew (Brooke); his three grandchildren Blakely, Dash, and Ever; his sisters Ronda Phillips (Paul) and Debbie Dailey; his sister-in-law Hope Cantrell (Mike); his nephews Kodi Sells (Sandra), Michael Amaral, Sean Evans (Aimee), Donald Evans (Carey); his uncle Jerry Offenburger (Juanita); his cousin Danny Byers; and his beloved dogs Coco and Casper. He will be missed, but no longer in pain.
A Celebration of Life well lived will be held at 12:00PM Saturday, April 5, 2025, at Cassia Community Club, 29245 FL-44, Eustis, FL 32736. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations to the Cassia Community Club scholarship fund. The Graveside Ceremony will be held at 11:30AM Friday, April 18, 2025, at the Jacksonville National Cemetery, 4083 Lannie Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32218.