Jesse Jay Dalehite, Jr

Jesse Jay Dalehite Jr (Jay) was born on October 14, 1930, in Galveston, Texas to Mary and Jesse Dalehite Sr. He passed away June 12, 2025, in Richardson, Texas.

He grew up in Galveston and graduated from the University of Houston. He served 2 years in the US Army and was discharged as a Second Lieutenant.

Jay retired from Shell Chemical Company in 1994 after 42 years of service. He and his family moved to Canyon Creek, Richardson, Texas in 1973, and for more than 50 years, he has been a pillar of leadership, service, and spirit in both his neighborhood and the greater Richardson community. Affectionately known as “The Mayor of Canyon Creek,” Jay was a tireless advocate for civic engagement and community development.

Jay served the Canyon Creek Homeowners Association with dedication and integrity, including 15 years as President. His contributions are woven into the very fabric of the neighborhood—from the creation of the CCHOA Flag Program and development of the HOA by-laws to the annual resident directory and the painting of curb numbers for all 2,850 homes in Canyon Creek.

Equally impactful was his decades-long commitment to the Boy Scouts, including over 40 years of service. He was Cubmaster of Pack 262, Pack Committee Chairman, Unit Commissioner, and Assistant District Commissioner on the District level. He was also a Silver Beaver Award recipient, the highest award the Circle Ten Council Boy Scouts could present.

Jay was a 2020 recipient of the Richardson, Texas Real Heroes Award and an active alum of Leadership Richardson, the Richardson Citizens Police Academy, and the Richardson Citizens Fire Academy. He served on the boards of Animal Luv and the City of Richardson Sign Board.

Jay always led with humility and a servant’s heart.

Jay is survived by his wife of 52 years Sandy, 5 children, Deborah Leyva, Jesse Jay Dalehite III, Sylvia Collins, Jeffrey Dalehite, Michael Dalehite,12 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren and 1 great greatgrandchild.

Jay’s legacy is one of service, leadership, and love for community. His presence will be sorely missed, but his impact will live on with every flag flown, every scout mentored, and every neighbor who calls Canyon Creek home.

A Memorial Service will be held on August 9 at 3:00 pm at the Allen Family Funeral Options. A reception will follow.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to a charity of your choice in Jay’s name.