Jerry Lee “Soapy” Dial, 76, of Ottumwa, passed away at 6:57 a.m. August 20, 2026 at The Comfort House Hospice in Pella with complications from Lewy Body Dementia.
He was born October 28, 1949 in Ottumwa to Ray and Stella Hawes Dial. He married Alice “Lica” Mataya June 18, 1977.
A 1967 graduate of Ottumwa High School, Jerry enjoyed playing football which led to playing at William Penn College, then the Chicagoland Semi-Pro Football League team, The Newton Nitehawks. He worked at the John Morrell & Company and then at John Deere Ottumwa Works for 32 years, retiring in 2006. He was a proud member of the UAW Local 74.
Jerry’s favorite hobbies were walking his Goldens around Wildwood Park and growing unique hot peppers with the help of his friend, Charles. He called it his “pepper ranch”.
Jerry and Alice enjoyed traveling with their son to many U.S. states and especially Colorado and the Cancun area of Mexico multiple times. Then Jerry and Alice, along with their Golden Retriever, Harbor, visited all 48 contiguous states many times over and almost all of the National Parks. They were avid foodies, photographers, flew large inflatable kites, and loved watching whales on both coasts. The best time for both of them was sitting on a beach watching blue water and beautiful sunsets together.
He is survived by his wife, Alice; their son, Eric Dial, and his wife, Mandi, of Fairfield; four cousins, Ralph “Bud” Dial of Keokuk and “The Hawes Gang” (Tom, Cindy, and Ronnie); a sister-in-law, Paulette Anderson; a brother-in-law, Jim Anthony; and all of their beautiful families. Also surviving is his seventh Golden Retriever and porchin’ buddy, “Indy”.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents, parents and infant brother, Thomas.
His body has been cremated.
A time to celebrate his life will be held 1 p.m. Saturday August 29th at Reece Funeral Home with Pastor Mel Kendall officiating. Visitation with his family present to greet friends will be one hour prior to the service. Inurnment will be in Ottumwa Cemetery next to his parents and infant brother.
Memorials may be made to Heartland Humane Society or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
