He started out starring on the basketball team at Morgan Park High School and briefly enjoyed a short career with the Harlem Globetrotters, but to many Chicagoans he was known as one of the top radio personalities in the city. He was well known and loved for the great jazz music he played on his radio show and for the rhythmic monologues he used to describe the music. Holmes “Daddy – O” Daylie was also known as a major figure in Chicago 16″ softball with his Southside Cocktail League from 1962 to 1967. He played in the league until he broke his leg sliding into second base. The Cocktail League was well known for attracting players from all over the city, many of whom went on to become softball Hall of Famers. One highlight of the league occurred when Hall of Fame inductee Hank Curie pitched what might be the first no hit, no run 16″ softball game. Holmes Daylie passed away in 2003. He is survived by his wife, Marcheta and is missed by many lovers of jazz music and 16″ softball.
Holmes “Daddy O” Daylie
