By now, most of you have heard the horrible news that we lost one of the longest and most beloved members of our family here at the Phinsider. Dale Joseph Faircloth, aka daytonadolfan aka Tona, passed away last month, unexpectedly, at the age of 67. Joe, as many of you may know, had recently retired from Volusia County here in Florida and lived in Holly Hill, Florida. Joe had also been dealing with a lot of painful back issues prior to his untimely passing.
Joe was already an important part of the
Phinsider community and a daily mainstay when I joined the site way back in 2009. Joe would also probably have wanted me to mention that he was the most rabid Dolphins (his home was a museum of Miami Dolphins fandom) and FSU Seminoles fan, but that his family — whom he loved and who clearly loved him — was always his priority. There is no better sign of a life well lived!
Joe, over the years, became a friend not just to me but to many others here and outside the site, and I will forever miss his level-headed approach and take on seemingly everything, the friendly banter we shared on the phone or a funny text that made me smile, and just his kindness and ever-present thoughtfulness towards others. The news of his passing hit me much harder than I would have ever expected. That, along with some other personal health issues, made it hard for me to get to this post, and for that I apologize.
This loss served as another sad reminder to me to never take the friends and family you love and care about for granted, because none of us is guaranteed tomorrow.
Below is a heartfelt tribute from another long-time site member and friend of Joe’s, Alpha6, aka Johnny.
~ We gather today to celebrate and remember the life of Joe Faircloth, aka daytonadolfan, a cherished friend, confidant, and beacon of joy. Joe was a person of immense kindness, unwavering loyalty, and infectious enthusiasm. His presence in our lives was a source of constant support and laughter.
Joe was more than a friend; he was a true companion who stood by us through thick and thin. His genuine care and concern for others were evident in every interaction, and his ability to lift our spirits with his humor and positivity was unparalleled.
Whether it was a spontaneous adventure, a heartfelt conversation, or simply sharing a quiet moment, Joe made every experience special. His zest for life and adventurous spirit inspired us all to embrace each day with open hearts and minds. Though Joe has left us, his spirit lives on in the countless memories we shared and the lessons he taught us: friendship, resilience, and joy. His legacy of kindness, laughter, and love will continue to guide us. We will carry his memory in our hearts forever, grateful for the time we had with him and the profound impact he made on our lives.
Rest in peace, dear Joe. You will be deeply missed, but never forgotten. ~
Joe’s family will see this post, so if you have any words or a tribute of your own, please feel free to post in the comments.
Additionally, the photo used for this post is courtesy of Griffin Van Nest, another longtime member of the site, who visited Joe at his home with his wife some years back.
RIP my brother Joe! You will not be forgotten!
