Obituary of Maria E. Dailey

Maria E. Dailey, beloved mother, grandmother, military spouse and businesswoman, passed peacefully following a prolonged illness on October 7, 2024. Born March 11, 1945 in Carrizo Springs, TX, she was the eldest child of Santiago “James” Sanchez and Evangeline “Eva” Garcia. She was predeceased by her parents and youngest brother, Robert “Bobby” Sanchez.

Maria spent her formative years in Toledo, OH and graduated from Harriet Whitney Vocational High School, with a major in business. She then moved to Dayton, OH and began working at Wright-Patterson AFB, where she met her true soulmate, Douglas Dailey, 2Lt USAF. They were married March 11, 1967 and enjoyed 57 happy years together. They lived in Ohio, California and Michigan, before settling in Rome, NY in 1980. Maria managed to imbue each new home with a sense of adventure and warmth.

She navigated the challenges of being a military wife with strength and resilience over Douglas’ 21-year career. She lovingly reared three sons - Nathaniel, Christopher and Matthew – guiding them to develop into three exemplary gentlemen.

In her respected career as a Realtor and Broker, Maria owned and operated M&D Dailey Realty. She earned the rare distinction of Broker Emeritus due to her professional commitment and longevity. She was also an active member of Rotary International, the National Association of Realtors and NY State Board of Realtors. She further served as President of the Rome Board of Realtors and the local chapter of the Business & Professional Women's Foundation.

Maria was a beacon of love to all and cherished spending time with her immediate and extended families. She had an intuitive gift for making everyone feel heard and understood. Maria’s passing leaves a profound void, yet her legacy endures through her husband and family who will carry forward her strength, grace and love. Her spirit remains woven into the fabric of their lives, a testament to a woman who embodied the beauty of a life well-lived.

She is survived by her husband, Douglas; brothers, James and David Sanchez; sons Nathaniel (wife Wendy), Christopher (wife Kristin), and Matthew (wife Christy); and her six grandchildren - Noelle, Berilynn, Madelina, Wolfgang, Trista and Kitriana.

Be thou at peace.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects during visitation hours on Sunday Oct 20, 2024, from 2-5PM at the Nunn and Harper Funeral Home, Inc., 418 N. George St., Rome, NY, 13440. Interment to be at Fort Meigs Cemetery in Perrysburg, OH.