Dr. William Earl Daily, lovingly known as Bill, passed in peace on Saturday, December 1, 2018 at the age of 83. He joins adoptive parents Frank and Mary Daily (nee Murphy), birth parents Harvey and Winifred Jones (nee Murphy), brother Joe Ross, and countless friends considered family to Bill. Loving husband of 58 years to Mary Daily (nee Donovan). Devoted brother of Catherine (Katie) Jones. Beloved father of Mary Beth (Barry) Bruns, Catherine (Dan) Dalton, Frank Daily (Susan Dinesen), Maura Daily, Maria (Mike) Dickman, and Tom Daily Cherished grandfather to Molly (Josh) Lutts, Jenny and Joey Bruns, Pam, Emma, and Erin Dickman, Jessica, Billie, Quinn, and Elle Daily. Proud great-grandfather to Jack and Elliott Lutts.
Growing up in Indianapolis, he attended Lourdes Catholic School, as well as Cathedral High School. He was a proud graduate of Xavier University in Cincinnati, Ohio, and subsequently earned a PhD from the University of Cincinnati. His commitment and zest for learning continued as he furthered his education formally and informally.
Bill retired as professor emeritus at Xavier University after 37 years of service. During his tenure he served as Chairman of the Communication Arts Department, and was co-founder of the E Pluribus Unum cultural diversity program. He received countless accolades throughout his storied career. His role as an educator reached far beyond the classroom, as he always led by example and encouraged others to take care of those who take care of you. He continued to challenge others to have the courage to question, courage to speak out, and the courage to act until his last days.
He was a humble man with unwavering faith grounded in the values, teachings, and beliefs of the Catholic church. Bill was a member of the Holy Family Church, as well as an active Associate at the Sisters of St. Francis Convent in nearby Oldenburg, IN.
Bill was known as the Visionary and Architect for Xavier Athletics today. Not only did he develop a love of basketball, he also shared a passion for all Xavier Athletics. In addition, he enjoyed annually attending the Indianapolis 500, traveling with the Men’s Basketball team, and attending activities in which his children and grandchildren participated.
Bill had an innate skill for leadership,, and became a champion for social justice. He taught us that our differences are truly what bring people together.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, December 6, 2018 4-8 p.m. at the Cintas Center on the campus of Xavier University. On Friday, December 7, 2018 visitation at 9:30 a.m. with a 10:00 a.m. mass to follow, all will take place at the Sisters of St. Francis Chapel, Oldenburg, IN. Bill will be cremated and interred at Holy Family Cemetery on Saturday, December 8th.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Coach Daily Basketball Managers Endowment at Xavier University ℅ Xavier University 3800 Victory Parkway ML 5440 Cincinnati, Ohio 45207.
Meyers Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences can be made at www.meyersfuneralhomes.com.