Shirley McDaniel

Published 4:30 pm Tuesday, November 2, 2010

BUCKINGHAM, Nov. 2 – Having brought much joy and love to those who knew her, Shirley H. McDaniel of Buckingham, slipped free of her physical frame, Saturday, October 30, 2010, and now, without question, revels in the amazing celebration around the throne of grace as a member of the great host of witnesses peering over the battlements of heaven, even now attending our every word and effort. She inspired, listened, embraced and lived each day fully connected to God, family, and friends. Whether it was walking the old quarter of Barcelona or Australian outback or gliding down a perfectly groomed trail at Vail or touring the Blue Ridge Parkway on her motorcycle, Shirley displayed a thoroughgoing appreciation for transcendent moments.

She was born to Fred and Edna Harcum in February 1935, a pastor's daughter and big sister to Bud Hacum, deceased, and Nancy Wetherington of Weems.

Mrs. McDaniel attended Radford College, graduating in 1956, and while there met James McDaniel, a VPI student. They married in 1958 and spent time in Maryland and Caroline County, before settling in the wonderful rolling countryside of Buckingham to raise a son, Jeff and daughter, Jennifer Ayers, currently of Wheaton, IL.

She enthusiastically poured herself into the essential work of education, first as teacher and then as guidance counselor, earning a master's degree from Longwood College in 1974. Her energy and interest in physical education naturally extended into coaching positions as she led women's basketball and tennis teams.

Mrs. McDaniel was a member of Mulberry Grove Baptist Church, where she effortlessly contributed to the music ministry of the fellowship, leading the choir and playing organ and piano.

A meaningful tribute to her life would be contribution to the Alzheimer's Foundation or Mulberry Grove Baptist Church.

A worship service to celebrate Mrs. McDaniel's life took place Tuesday, November 2, at Mulberry Grove Baptist Church in Buckingham.

Puckett Funeral Home, Farmville, served the family.

www.puckettfh.com