In the early morning hours of September 28, 2023, Dorothy Louise Daniel, known affectionately as "Granny," age 85, peacefully closed her eyes and was welcomed into her heavenly home. Her journey of faith, which began at the age of 16, carried her steadfastly for 69 remarkable years, preparing her for a joyous reunion with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Dorothy was born on May 14, 1938, in Poplar Bluff, Missouri, as the third oldest of seven siblings. Her childhood was marked by poverty and hardship, but it was during those challenging years that she learned the true meaning of selflessness. From a young age, Dorothy assumed the role of caregiver, a responsibility she carried with grace throughout her entire life, taking care of her siblings, her children, her grandchildren, and many neighbors who were in need. She embodied the spirit of Proverbs 31:20, "She opens her arms to the poor and extends her hands to the needy."

On October 4, 1958, in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Dorothy married Frank Nelson Daniel, a US Army Soldier. Their union marked the beginning of an adventurous life as a military family. They traveled the world, calling France, Germany, Belgium, Okinawa, and various US states their home until they finally retired in Fayetteville, NC. As they journeyed, Dorothy was an avid volunteer with the Protestant Women of the Church, teaching children's church, serving as a Boy Scout Leader and Den Mom, teaching Vacation Bible School, serving as a substitute teacher, and visiting retirement homes.  In Fayetteville, she seamlessly integrated into the workforce, taking on various roles, including working at the Goodyear Tire Factory (formerly Kelly Springfield), serving as a lead accountant, and dedicating herself to educating as a homeschool teacher.

Dorothy leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion. She is survived by her daughter, Michele Daniel Lewis (George III), her beloved granddaughters, Cherie, Samantha, and Lexie (Anthony Coppinger), along with her three cherished great-grandchildren, Savannah, Natalie, and Finley and one great-great-granddaughter, Willow. Dorothy was preceded in death by her loving husband, Frank Nelson Daniel, her son, Gregory Nelson Daniel, and her grandson, Kristopher Fielding Lewis. We can imagine the joyous reunion in Heaven, where they welcomed her with open arms.

While Heaven may have been eagerly awaiting her arrival, Dorothy's absence here on Earth will be deeply felt. Her presence was a beacon of love, strength, and faith. Dorothy's character and unwavering faith have left an indelible mark on her family, and her memory will forever be cherished.

As we mourn the loss of Dorothy Louise Daniel, let us also celebrate a life well-lived, a heart full of love, and a legacy of independence and strength that will continue to inspire generations to come.  In honor of her life, in lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to one of two organizations that embodies Dorothy's heart of giving.  The first is The Kristopher Fielding Lewis Foundation which honors the life and character of Dorothy's grandson, Kristopher, who was killed in a car accident. Donation link: https://www.kflfoundation.com/ or direct link: https://buy.stripe.com/aEU6qr6g25KTfOUcMM

The second organization, Operation Gratitude, sends handmade items and care packages to service members and their families, and our law enforcement, firefighters, and first responders to express our appreciation.  Donation link: https://www.operationgratitude.com/

Graveside services will be held at 2pm on Monday, October 9, 2023 at Sandhills State Veterans Cemetery.

Online condolences may be left at http://www.jerniganwarren.com

Arrangements by Jernigan-Warren Funeral Home, 545 Ramsey St. Fayetteville, NC 28301