David Edmund McDaniel, known affectionately as “Mac,” peacefully departed this world on October 21, 2023, in Lake Charles, Louisiana, surrounded by his cherished family. He was 77 years old.

Born on March 11, 1946, in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, Dave was the son of Duncan and Lillian McDaniel. He spent his formative years in Durham, North Carolina, where he served as an Altar Boy and Boy Scout. In high school, his passion for sports led him to excel in football and baseball. Following his graduation from Southern High School, Dave answered the call of duty, enlisting in the US Army, where he furthered his education at Officer Candidate and Airborne School. He displayed immense bravery by deploying to Vietnam as part of the 3rd Special Forces group. His service to his country culminated with an honorable discharge as a 1st Lieutenant.

In 1976, Dave relocated to Waco, Texas, to join the team at Brazos Electric Cooperative, where he dedicated 45 years of his life, working tirelessly and ensuring a loving and nurturing environment for his family.

In 2002, Dave’s life underwent a beautiful transformation when he met the love of his life, Joy, in Lake Charles, LA. It was a story of love at first sight, and for twenty-three years, he drove many hours every weekend to see her, never forgetting to bring her flowers. Dave had a deep-rooted passion for Harley motorcycles, and his cherished memory was a remarkable trip he took to the Sturgis Bike Rally with his friends.

In 2019, Dave retired from Brazos Electric, leaving a legacy of dedication and loyalty to the organization.

Dave’s selflessness knew no bounds, as he consistently placed the needs of his family above all else. A true gentleman and a man of utmost respectability, he was honest, hardworking, and always ready to go the extra mile for others. His love for his family was immeasurable, and his absence will leave an irreplaceable void in their lives.

Dave McDaniel is survived by his loving wife, Joy McDaniel, and their children, Todd McDaniel (Rhonda), Rodwell McDaniel (Melissa), and Heather Courville (Jimmy), as well as his stepchildren, Johnnie Dyer (Mary), Robert Dyer (Michelle), and Kelli Diamond Meyers (Brandon). He leaves behind 18 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren, who were the light of his life. He is also survived by his brother, Michael, and his sisters, Patsy and Cathy, along with his beloved dog, Maisy.

Dave was preceded in death by his parents, Duncan and Lillian.

A memorial service to celebrate the life of David Edmond McDaniel will be held at Johnson Funeral Home on Friday, October 27, 2023, at 1 pm. Following the service, interment will take place at Highland Memory Gardens. Friends and family are invited to pay their respects during a visitation at the funeral home on Friday, from 11 am to 1 pm.

David McDaniel’s legacy of love, selflessness, and dedication will forever remain in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him. May he rest in peace.