Al Dasher, 71, passed away in his home on Friday, September 26, 2014, after a long and difficult battle with oral cancer. Al was born in Moultrie, GA, the son of the late Carl Alfred Dasher, Jr. and Mary Elizabeth Battle Dasher. He is survived by his son Willis Alfred Dasher, Jr. and his wife Kristina, son Steven Grady Dasher, two granddaughters, Logan and Riley, brother Carl Dasher, sister Susie Payne and her husband Travis. He was predeceased by his devoted and loving wife Ellen and beloved brother Warren.
After two years at Valdosta State College, Valdosta, GA, Al entered the Naval Aviation Cadet program, where he earned his pilot wings and was commissioned in the United States Navy, where he flew the A-4 Skyhawk. Al followed his military service working as an airline pilot for TWA, Piedmont and retired as a Captain with US Airways.
Al was an avid golfer, bridge player and active in the Virginia Beach community. His most recent volunteer services include the following: Broad Bay Country Club, President, Broad Bay Civic League, Meals on Wheels, Spring Branch Community Church, and a member of the Airline Pilots’ Association. His greatest joy was spending time with his granddaughters and his dog, Socks.
A memorial service and celebration of his life will be held at the Francis Ashbury United Methodist Church at 2 p.m. Friday, October 3rd at 1871 N. Great Neck Rd. in Virginia Beach. After the service, the family will host a reception for Al’s friends. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions to the American Cancer Society or to a charity of your choice in Al’s name. Please share your condolences with the family at www.FamilyChoiceFunerals.com
Will,
Jan and I are saddened to learn of Al’s passing. I always appreciated his support for you and the Falcon soccer team, and his supportive attitude as a parent.
We are also sorry that we will not be able to attend his services since we are flying to Denver and parts West today. Please pass our condolences on to your family.
We know that Al is flying high once more.
Jan and Jim
Al always did it his way. A great pilot and a great man. I miss the golf we played but a couple of times. He will surely lift you up on eagles wings. God Speed.
Dear Will, Kristina, Logan and Riley:
We were saddened to read of the loss of your father and grandfather. He sounds like a great man. Know that our thoughts are with you at this most difficult time.
Sincerely,
Zoe, Steve, Chloe & Clay Obara
I flew with Al many years ago and am so sorry to hear he passed. An exceptionally talented pilot. Our prayers are with you and your family.
Sincerely
Diane Sandoval
Now a captain for Usairways
Dear Family,
You are all so blessed to have such a fine gentleman in your lives. I am so sorry to see him go. I spent many, many of the best hours of my life with “Al” on or around various golf courses. I was lucky to be in a group of 4 airline pilots which included “Al” that would get together annually for a golf trip somewhere in the eastern US. Many fine hours of horseplay & companionship. I am so proud to say he was my friend. You have our deepest condolences. Capt. Dasher and his family will be in our prayers. Good life Al.
Will and family,
I am so sorry for your loss….Keeping you in my thoughts during this difficult time. It was so nice to run into you Wednesday
My condolences to all of Al’s family. I had the pleasure of first meeting Al when he was hired by Piedmont. Al flew with me on the 727 and later the 737, we nicknamed him “Fast Al”. It was always a pleasure to work with Al and I cannot ever remember Al without a smile. A really great guy and a true gentleman. I am deeply saddened to learn of his passing, but for me he is one of those pilots I will never forget. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Dear Dasher family.
Sad news to hear about Al flying west. May he rest in peace in the hands of our Heavenly Father. I had the pleasure of flying as his F/O in BWI many times. He always had a smile on his face, always a grin. He was a bright and happy soul and it rubbed of on the rest of us. I used to tell my family about Capt Dasher, and the relationship to the Christmas song, “On Dasher, On Dancer…” As a fellow Vet(AF) I thank him for his service to our country. As an airline pilot, I thank him for years of dedication and safe travels. Capt Rick Rohas(Piedmont-US Airways) CLT AB 320-ret.
May the beautiful memories of your loved one provide solace and strength to you and your family during this difficult time. May you also find much comfort in God’s promise of life without end on a Paradise earth.
Matt 5:5 & Psalms 37:11, 29