James Dale Pryor

James Dale Pryor (Dale) passed peacefully in his sleep, on Sunday, May 1, 2022 at home in Pittsburg, California.

Dale was born in Yonkers, Oklahoma on December 17, 1934, the second child of Henry & Myrtle Pryor. The family later migrated to Central California during the Dust Bowl, first to Visalia and later Delano.

After High School in the mid-1950’s, Dale joined the United States Army and served for two years. After completing his service, he became a police officer in Delano, rising to the rank of Lieutenant and Watch Commander.

In the late 1960’s, Dale relocated to San Francisco where he held several positions in security at various department stores and worked nights as a bartender. However, his first love was always music and in the late 1970’s he established his CountryWestern band, Hayfever. He was well-known throughout the Bay Area, and his band entertained at many clubs and hotspots throughout the years. The songs “That Rainy Sunday” and “Over You”, both of which he co-wrote, were played often on local radio stations and were hits among his followers. He independently released two albums in the late 1990’s “Lookin’ For A Light” and “Everything’s Gonna B.O.K.”, the latter a nod to the B.O.K. Ranch in Woodside where he played several times with his band.

Dale was an avid 49ers fan, and tuned in to all their games. He also enjoyed sharing a Heineken or two at the VFW Post 6435 in Antioch with friends a few times per week.

Dale was preceded in death by his wife, Dee, his sister, Lucy Collins, and his nephew, Bill Collins. He is survived by his two children, daughter Susan Pryor of Bakersfield and son Jason Pryor of Daly City, along with his loving grandchildren and a host of longtime friends.

Dale was a devoted spouse, dedicated father, and caring friend who will be missed by all who knew him.

His final resting place will be the Sacramento Veterans National Cemetery in Dixon, California, where a celebration of his life will take place on Wednesday, July 6 at 2pm.