Dale McFadden

Alton "Dale" McFadden, 73, of Abilene, was called to his eternal home on Monday, March 23, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, resilience, and deep connection to his family, friends, and community. A memorial service will be on Saturday, April 4, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. in the chapel of Piersall Funeral Directors, 733 Butternut Street.

Dale was born on August 19, 1952, at 3:10 a.m. in Haskell, Texas, to A.D. McFadden and Maudie Wright McFadden. He was raised in Haskell and graduated from Haskell High School in 1971. He later attended barber school and went on to fulfill the dream he had carried with him for much of his life.

Born with a physical handicap, Dale never allowed it to define him or keep him from pursuing what he loved. With determination, grit, and heart, he built a life and career that reflected exactly who he was. He became a barber not only by trade, but by calling.

For decades, Dale proudly owned and operated Dale's Barber Shop, where he became a familiar and beloved face to so many. He loved his customers, and he truly loved what he did. To Dale, every day was an opportunity to meet a new face, hear a new story, and share a laugh. His shop was more than just a place to get a haircut - it was a place of friendship, storytelling, humor, and community. He was known for his stories, his jokes, and his ability to make anyone feel at home the moment they walked through the door.

Before work each day, Dale could often be found enjoying breakfast at La Familia, where he was treated like family. After work, he could often be found at Rick and Carolyn's or at Grump's, spending time with the people and places that meant so much to him.

Dale was a devoted father to Lolita Antunes, Samantha Stokes, Michael Stokes, and Adam Stokes. He was preceded in death by his parents, A.D. and Maudie McFadden; his wife, Sarah Alcorta McFadden; his sister, Carlin McFadden; his daughter, Samantha Stokes; and his close friend and first cousin, Edward Wright.

He was a proud and loving grandfather to Daniel Sotelo, Zachary Sotelo, Alexis "Lexie" Sotelo, John Stokes, Joey Stokes, and Isabella Stokes, and a cherished great-grandfather to Laila Brake and Averie Brake.

He is also survived by his siblings, Troy McFadden, Martha Timms, Richard McFadden, Faye Rich, Gail Brady, Ricky McFadden, Kendall McFadden, and Ernest McFadden, along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and lifelong friends.

Outside of the barber shop, Dale found joy in the simple things that made life meaningful. He loved fishing, talking about fishing, and taking others out to fish for the very first time - something especially close to his heart because it was first taught to him by his father as a child. He enjoyed playing cards with his family, especially his granddaughter Lexie, and treasured the time spent making memories with those he loved.

Each year, Dale especially looked forward to his family reunions in November, where he could gather with his siblings and extended family. Those were moments he held close and deeply cherished.

If you spent enough time around Dale, you likely heard him singing David Allan Coe or Merle Haggard, talking about fishing, or enjoying one of his favorite Louis L'Amour books or Clint Eastwood westerns. He had a love for stories, old country music, and the kind of simple, honest joys that made life rich.

Dale will be remembered for his humor, resilience, work ethic, and the way he made people feel seen, welcomed, and loved. He lived a life full of stories, laughter, loyalty, and heart, and the impact he made will live on in the many people who had the privilege of knowing him.

And in true Dale fashion, he would want everyone to know: "I told you I was sick."

He was deeply loved, and his memory will live on in all who knew him.