Dale N. Varner

LCDR Dale N. Varner, USN (RET), Age 85, died April 6th, 2016. Preceded in death by his daughter, Nita Faircloth, and his wife, Mary, he is survived by his children, Thomas Varner and Karen Jones (husband Glenn); his grandchildren, Jessica Scott (husband Gordon) and Christian Varner (wife LaShawnda); great-grandsons, Nicholas and Dustin Scott and great-granddaughters, Chloe Neryse and Guinevere Renee’ Varner; and great-great-grandson, Mason Nevin John Scott. A Sailor Died Today He was getting old and wrinkled, and his hair was falling fast. And he sat around on weekends, telling stories of the past. Of the places he had traveled to and the deeds that he had done. In his exploits with his shipmates, they were heroes, every one! And to listen to his neighbors, his tales were but a joke. But his shipmates, they all nodded, for they knew whereof he spoke. But we’ll hear his tales no longer, for our Dale has passed away, And the world’s a little poorer; for a sailor died today. Upon retirement from the Navy, he built cabinets for his keep, Then he worked awhile at Publix, just a couple of days a week. His wife and kids and grandkids (and “greats” and “great-great”, too) Were even more important than had been the Navy Blue. He was not exactly ornery, but he did most things his way; So the world will hardly notice that a sailor died today. Now he won’t be mourned by many, just the few who knew him best. And he wonders will they miss him as he takes his final rest. When politicians leave this earth, their bodies lie in state. While thousands note their passing and proclaim that they were great. Papers tell of their life stories from the time that they were young. But the passing of a sailor goes unnoticed and unsung. If we cannot do him honor while he’s here to hear the praise, Then at least let’s give him homage at the ending of his days. Perhaps a simple notice in the paper that might say: “Be silent for a moment, please: a sailor died today”