Chief Petty Officer Charles Samuel Daniels Sr.
Chief Petty Officer (CPO) Charles Samuel Daniels Sr., U.S. Navy (Retired), 87, of Blackshear, passed away Friday, August 22, 2025, at Hospice Satilla Hospice House in Waycross.
A man of honor, service and dedication, his life was a testament to persev erance, loyalty and love for his family, friends and country.
He was born March 18, 1938, in Patterson, the son of the late Sylvester Daniels and Flora Blake. Affectionately known as Sam and Charles Sammie, he was raised by his loving grandmother, Emma Blake, aunts Estella Austin, Willie Belle Daniels, Elouise Blake, Jessie Cooper and Mary E. James and his uncles Charles Blake, William Blake and James Blake. They all loved and taught him the values that would later define his life.
He was a graduate of Lee Street High School, Class of 1957, and was a member of the basketball team. He also loved baseball and played on the community baseball team. At a young age, he enlisted in the United States Army, later joining the Navy, embarking on a remarkable 24-year career that saw him rise to the rank of Chief Petty Officer. While serving with the Navy, he traveled to numerous countries and was stationed overseas and at many stateside locations. He was a Gunner’s Mate, responsible for the operation, maintenance and repair of weapon systems, from small arms to missile launchers and gun mounts. Chief Daniels military service was distinguished by his professionalism and excellence. Among his many accolades were six Good Conduct Medals, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Navy Achievement Medal, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, Expert Pistol Shot Medal .45 Caliber and Expert Rifle Medal M14. His dedication to his fellow service members and his country was unwavering and his contributions left an indelible mark on all who served alongside him.
He was a longtime member of Scott Chapel United Methodist Church in Blackshear. He was an avid golfer who spent most of his weekends on the golf course where he formed many of his closest friendships on the links. For many years, he cultivated and cared for his gardens and he often found peace and joy fishing in his pond. In his golden years, he enjoyed attending the Pierce County Senior Citizen Center enjoying both activities and fellowship. He was often referred to as the cornhole champion, a reflection of this competitive spirit and joyful nature. He was a quiet, humble man that willingly sacrificed for his family if needed and helped so many people without fanfare or expecting anything in return.
He was preceded in death by his stepmother, Lillian Daniels; brothers Sylvester Daniels and Leroy Daniels and his sisters, Helen Sharpe, Marion Daniels and Bernice Murdock.
Survivors include his loving wife of 63 years, Mattie Thompson Daniels; daughters, Janet Scott (Chester) and Lisa Keith; sons, Anthony Jenkins (Louise) and Charles Daniels Jr. and Danny (Venturine-Vee); sister, Earlene Jacobs; grandchildren, Jada Kelley (Maurice), Chelsea Scott, Danielle Keith, Brian Keith, Makenzie Daniels and Charles Daniels III; great-grandchildren, Nyla Kelley, Broderick Washington Jr., Tre, and Brailyn Keith and numerous nieces and nephews.
He loved the bond he shared with all of his cousins and friends. He will be profoundly missed and lovingly remembered.
Visitation will be held from 4-8 p.m. Friday, August 29, at Scott Chapel United Methodist Church, 420 Highway Avenue, Blackshear.
Homegoing services will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, August 30, from the Scott Chapel United Methodist Church.
Interment will follow in The Ridge Cemetery, 5610 Aarons Way, Patterson.
The family will convene for the repast at the Thomas Smith Jr. Social Annex, St. James Baptist Church – The Ridge.
All are welcome to attend.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Harrington Family Funeral Services of Waycross.
