Jesse F. Dial, Jr

Jesse “Buddy” Franklin Dial, Jr., 96, passed away on March 9, 2024, at his home in Ida, Louisiana.

He was born to Jesse Dial, Sr., and Exie Ratliff Dial on March 18, 1927, in Louann, Arkansas. Jesse worked from an early age as a field hand and moved up to plowing fields to help support his family during the Great Depression. He began reading before he entered school and continued reading throughout his life. At eighteen years old, during WWII, Jesse joined the Navy as a sailor, attaining the rank of Radarman 3^rd Class and earning the WWII Victory Medal. Subsequently, he transitioned to the Merchant Marines, becoming an Able-Bodied Seaman. After returning from the sea, he became a welder and joined Local Pipeliners’ Union 798 in 1954, which he stayed a member of until his death. 

Jesse was a quiet man who loved the outdoors. An avid bass angler, he loved to traverse the local fishing spots well into his eighties. He valued hard work and education. He taught those principles to his children and grandchildren. Jesse also taught a competitive spirit through ruthlessly beating friends and family at dominoes.

Jesse is survived by his wife of 62 years, Wanda Slaughter Dial; daughters, Mellisa Dial, Cathy Dial, and Christy Chambers (and husband, Doyle); brothers, Joe, and Alton “Punkin” Dial; grandchildren, Luke Hall, Levi Hall (and wife, Amy), Sierra Laing, and Hanna Laing. He is preceded in death by his parents, three sisters, and three brothers.

A graveside service will be held at Bethsaida Cemetery at 10:00 am on March 12, 2024.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Bethsaida Cemetery in Ida, LA, or a charity of your choice.