Lavern McDaniel

Lavern McDaniel passed away on May 23, 2026, at the age of 80 and went to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He was born on May 21, 1946, to the late Edward and Nettie Dowden McDaniel.

Lavern was a big-hearted and generous soul. He could have fun anywhere and with anyone, even with something as simple as a paper straw wrapper. He loved children and always had jokes to tell or time for a game of rock-paper-scissors. Adults knew him as a rascal, a few knew him as a hothead, but most simply knew him as a good man.

Lavern was a strong follower of Jesus and never hesitated to speak to others about his faith. He was an avid fisherman who deeply enjoyed his fishing trips with friends. His time spent out on the water with a fishing rod or shrimp net was especially meaningful to him.

Lavern is survived by his sister, Allie Smith; his five daughters, Kimla McDaniel, Bridgette McDaniel, Jodie McDaniel, Skye McDaniel Westlake, and Erika McDaniel; his grandchildren, Jene Nichole McDaniel, Miguel Louise McDaniel, Fernest Jace Lagneaux, Trevor Lambas, Joy Grace Guilbeau, Max Vallery, Xander Courts, Avery Carter, Reece Givens, Rise Colton, EzRael Goodwin, and TuReal Goodwin; and his great-grandchildren, Alena McDaniel, Elonir Lagneaux, Khloe Drinkard, and Laxley Demitrus.

He is also survived by his stepchildren, Raiechilla Touchstone, Melanie Chavis, Kirk LeJeune, and Jeremiah McDaniel, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Lavern was preceded in death by ten siblings: Charles McDaniel, Peggy McDaniel, Reba Gordon, Mary Ogea, Leroy McDaniel, Wilbur McDaniel, Betty Ardoin, Paul McDaniel, Glen McDaniel, and June Hovatter.

A funeral service for Lavern McDaniel will be held on Thursday, May 28, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Johnson Funeral Home in Lake Charles, with burial to follow at Creel Cemetery in Reeves, Louisiana. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Johnson Funeral Home in Lake Charles.

The family would like to thank the many family members and friends whose love and support carried them through this difficult time. They extend special thanks to his caregivers, Charlotte Guillory, Jenna Guillory, Aimie Clark, Casie Escobedo, and the staff of Harbor Hospice for their compassion and care.