Donte’ Dailey

It is with the heaviest of hearts that we share the devastating news of Donte’ Dailey’s passing on Wednesday, June 18, 2025. His life was unexpectedly and tragically taken by gunfire.

Donte’ was the inspiration and driving force behind our 501(c)(3) organization, Dsquared Homes for the Homeless (Dsquared4homeless.org), which was created to prevent homelessness for employed individuals with Serious Mental Illness (S.M.I.) experiencing a temporary setback. Donte’ himself was denied temporary shelter over a mere $40 income overage and subsequently lived in Kiwanis Park for a year. That experience showed us how the system can actually create homelessness by denying minimal help during temporary setbacks—especially for those with Serious Mental Illness (S.M.I.).

Donte' was a beloved son, brother, and friend, and a powerful force of nature to all who knew him. He loved superheroes, comic books, and playing Scrabble with his family. He will be deeply missed by so many, especially the hundreds of volunteers who proudly serve our community by filling hygiene bags and making sleeping mats for those experiencing homelessness, all because of his inspiration.

Despite the hardships he faced, Donte’ never stopped giving. Even while unsheltered, he volunteered with multiple community organizations, proving that compassion, purpose, and resilience can shine in the darkest of times. We learned from him that independence can become a liability when compassion is missing from systems of care.

Donte’ eventually returned to full-time work, defying medical predictions and earning multiple promotions. He had the heart, experience, and vision to help lead Dsquared and inspire others with a story that proved a diagnosis—or a period of homelessness—does not define one’s destiny. His journey was powerful proof that God has the final say—not circumstance, stigma, or diagnosis.

I am coming to terms with the fact that he will not be with me to impact the SMI and homeless populations as expected. Although he won’t be by my side, I am grateful to know he is finally at peace. There is no longer any guilt, shame, physical and emotional pain, or voices controlling his life. I know I will see him, finally happy, again. 

As Isaiah 55:8 reminds us:“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways.”

Viewing will be Held

Thursday, July 3rd

1 pm – 2 pm

Red Mountain Funeral Home

456 N. Mesa Dr.Mesa, AZ 85201

Celebration of Life

Thursday, July 31st

10:30 am

Faith Christian Center

2640 E. McDowell Rd

Phoenix, AZ 85008

RepastThursday, July 31st

1 pm – 4 pm

Church of the Latter Day Saints

1881 E Del Rio DriveTempe, AZ 85282

In lieu of flowers,please consider making a donationin Donte’s name to the nonprofit orto help cover the cost of the services.

Cash App:  @dsquared4homeless

Venmo: Juan Te Dailey

Paypal: Dsquared4homeless@gmail.com

Mail donations to:

Dsquared Homes for the Homeless

90 S. Kyrene Rd, Suite 4

Chandler, AZ 85226

Click to Make a Donation in Donte's Name