Donte’s Journey

“Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: and whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this?”

John 11:25–26

Donte Lamont Dale, 45, received his wings and went home peacefully to be with the Lord on April 28, 2026. Affectionately known as “Donnie” to his beloved family and friends, he was the firstborn gift to his mother, Stephanie Dale Moore (Roger), and the late Troy Bennett. He was born on January 22, 1981, in Salisbury, MD. While deeply loved by his parents, it was his maternal grandmother, Patsy Dale, who played a pivotal role in raising him.

Donnie had an infectious smile that could light up any room. He lived life to the fullest and on his own terms. Educated at Snow Hill High School, Donte embraced life with passion and an unyielding zest, welcoming every moment and every person with love.

Donnie was outspoken and stood his ground, never taking anything from anyone. Even during his illness, when he could no longer speak, his strong will and determined spirit continued to shine through.

In addition to his devoted mother and maternal grandmother, his memory will be cherished by his daughters, Dai’Ondra Dale and Dia’Onna Dale of Salisbury, MD, and Tyliyah Collins of Snow Hill, MD; his maternal grandfather, Winfred Pettit (Catherine) of Virginia; his paternal grandmother, Maggie Dale (Riley) of Snow Hill, MD; his brother, Patrick Butler (Kalisha) of Pennsylvania; his sister, Tiffany Moore of Salisbury, MD; his aunt, Tracy Dale White (Ronald) of Snow Hill, MD; his uncle, Tyrone Dale (Tiffany) of Salisbury, MD; and his first cousins, Kionte, Kiondra, Tyesha, and Tyson, a childhood best friend Tonita Johnson,  along with a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his son, Amari Conway; his maternal grandparents, Gertrude Dale and Riley Shockley; and his brother, Stefon Hagans, who have welcomed him into eternal peace.

ANGEL

Tear drops, slow and steady, The pain so real and true, God took another angel, And that angel, dear, was you.

Angel wings upon the clouds,Your body softly sleeps, Hush now, little angel, No more tears you have to weep.

Little prayers are sent to you, The short life you led—Your family will never forget you, So rest your little head.

We know God will look after you,Now you are truly alive,Your spirit soars beyond the moon, Your legacy will survive.

You’re beautiful, you’re endless, Now stretch your wings and fly, You’re loved by so many, It will never be goodbye.

Close your pretty eyes, No more tears, just go and rest, Let your soul lie peacefully, We know you did your best.