Donald Omer Dayton, 97, passed away peacefully on July 11, 2025, at Daviess Community Hospital, surrounded by the family who adored him. A life well-lived, Don was born on September 16, 1927, in Washington, Indiana—a town he called home for nearly a century. His was a life of deep devotion: to his country, to his faith, to his beloved JoAnn, and to the family and friends he cherished every single day.
Don proudly served in the U.S. Navy as part of the Seabees during the closing chapter of World War II, and after returning home, he began building the extraordinary life that would leave an indelible mark on everyone who knew him. On November 24, 1949, Don married the love of his life, JoAnn GeLarden, beginning a 72-year partnership filled with warmth, humor, and unwavering devotion. JoAnn preceded him in death on January 14, 2022, and not a day passed that Don didn’t speak of her with affection and gratitude.
He earned his degree from the Indiana University School of Business and spent much of his career in the automotive supply industry. Even in retirement, Don never stopped working or connecting—he returned to serve in the Daviess County Voter Registration Office, where his impeccable memory and kindness made him a trusted friend to many. He was a faithful member of the First Baptist Church in Washington and an active member of the American Legion.
Don had many gifts: a brilliant mind, a photographic memory, a knack for numbers, and a love for both history and good conversation. He could recall names, dates, and stories with clarity even in his later years, and he delighted in sharing those memories with his children and grandchildren. Whether it was IU basketball, local politics, or family milestones, Don remembered it all—and he made those around him feel remembered too.
Don was the son of Omer O. Dayton and Miriam P. (Jones) Dayton. He was also the beloved brother of Edwin Dayton, who preceded him in death. He is survived by his children, each of whom was the recipient of his love and wisdom: Dr. Keith Dayton and his wife Donna of Ellettsville, IN; Karen Bissey of Washington; and Steve Dayton and his wife Virginia of Washington. His legacy also lives on through his twelve grandchildren and many great-grandchildren, all of whom knew their “Big Granddad” as a man of heart, humor, and integrity.
Though we grieve his passing, we are profoundly grateful for the 97 rich, meaningful years we shared with him. His love never wavered, and his presence in our lives was a constant blessing. We take comfort in knowing he is reunited with JoAnn, and we carry forward his legacy of kindness, dignity, and devotion.
A graveside service celebrating Don’s life will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, July 19, 2025, at Oak Grove Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Washington High School Athletic Department in Don’s name—an institution he quietly and faithfully supported for many years (and where he played football!!).
The Dayton family invites you to share memories and tributes at www.goodwinsieversfh.com
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