James "Jerry" Gerald Vaile

DIXON- James Gerald “Jerry” Vaile, 85, of Dixon, passed away on Monday, December 26, 2016 at Dixon Healthcare and Rehab.

Jerry was born on August 2, 1931 in Dixon, the son of James Hamill and Elizabeth Mary Denny Vaile. He married Betty John on August 26, 1950.   He later married Mary D. Schaefer on October 4, 1985.   She survives. 

Surviving are his children, Rosemary (Grady) Watson of Indianapolis, IN, Gary (Deb) Vaile of Sherwood, AR, Kenneth (Cheryle) Vaile of Bedford,TX, Martin (Michelle) Vaile of Dixon, and Edward (Lana) Vaile of Dixon; step-children, Martin (Kelly) Schaefer of Rock Falls and Kim (Mary) Schaefer of Morrison; 8 grandchildren; 9 step-grandchildren; 9 great grandchildren; and 15 step great grandchildren. 

Preceding him in death are one step child, Gary Schaefer; two brothers, Tom Vaile and Denny Vaile; and one sister, Elizabeth Mary Shaulis

Jerry was a member of the Carpenters and Locksmith Unions, Moose Lodge, and Northside Baptist Church.  He thoroughly enjoyed his time serving as a part-time Deputy Sheriff for the Lee County Sheriff’s Office.  He loved working with his hands, and he was very good at it.  He worked for many years as a carpenter and a locksmith.  

Charming, witty, and friendly are just a few of the words that describe Jerry.  He was a loving husband, father, step-father, grandfather, step-grandfather, and friend to many.  He will truly be missed by all those that knew him.

Services will be held on Saturday, December 31, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. at Northside Baptist Church, 598 River ln. Dixon, IL, with Pastor Dan Bentz officiating.   Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. to the time of service, and cremation rights will be accorded following the services. 

Memorial contributions may be made in Jerry’s honor to Serenity Hospice.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Chapel Hill Funeral Home, 1121 N. Galena Avenue, Dixon, IL.

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