Jeffrey A. Vail Sr.

Jeffrey A. Vail Sr. passed away peacefully on Friday, July 17, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family after a brief illness. Born on October 18, 1951, in St. Joseph, Missouri, Jeff grew up in Decatur, Illinois, where his lifelong commitment to faith, service, and community began.

Jeff was a devoted member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, serving through the St. Vincent de Paul Society and as a proud Knight of Columbus. His dedication to helping others was shaped early in life and strengthened through his marriage to his first wife, Stacey L. Vail, whose compassion and leadership inspired many. Stacey helped found the Five Loaves Two Fishes Food Pantry, establishing a mission of care that became important to the parish community. Jeff continued her work wholeheartedly, becoming a founding volunteer and giving countless hours to food distributions. His wife, Jane L. Vail, has also been a devoted volunteer since the pantry’s inception, faithfully serving alongside Jeff and helping carry forward the legacy of service and compassion.

Jeff also carried a lifelong love of the water. For 26 years, he served in the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, finding purpose and joy in protecting others and supporting the maritime community. Jeff enjoyed countless hours on his boat and loved his boat family.

Jeff is survived by his loving wife, Jane L. Vail; children, Jeffrey A. Vail Jr. (Melissa) and Pamela J. Vail; grandsons, Christopher (Cassandra), Shelby, and Chase (Diamond); great grandchildren, Alora, Theodore, and Moses; brothers, Kevin (Clare) and Eric (Janice), along with many cherished extended family members.

He is preceded in death by his first wife, Stacey L. Vail; mother, Carol Sweazy; and his brother, Ralph.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 23, 2026, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 319 East South Street, in Lebanon, Indiana. The Rosary will begin at 3:30 p.m. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, July 24, 2026, also at St. Joseph Catholic Church. Interment will follow immediately at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery in Lebanon. Myers Mortuary in Lebanon, Indiana has been entrusted with his arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations to the Five Loaves Two Fishes Food Pantry, in care of St. Joseph Catholic Church. https://osvhub.com/stjoeleb/giving/funds