BLACKSHEAR — Chief Petty Officer (CPO) Charles Samuel Daniels, Sr., U.S. Navy (Retired), age 87, of Blackshear, passed away Friday, August 22, 2025, at Satilla Hospice, Waycross.

A man of honor, service, and dedication, Daniels’ life was a testament to perseverance, loyalty, and love for his family, friends, and country. He was born on 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, uncles Charles Blake, William Blake and James Blake. They all loved and taught him the values that would later define his life.

Daniels 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 which saw him rise to the rank of Chief Petty Officer.

While serving with the Navy, Daniels 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.

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 Caliver, 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.

Daniels 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. For many years, Daniels cultivated and cared for his gardens. He often found peace and joy fishing in his pond.

In his golden years, Daniels 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. Daniels was a quiet, humble man who 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 and Leroy Daniels; and his sisters, Helen Sharpe, Marion Daniels and Bernice Murdock.

Daniels is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Mattie Thompson Daniels; daughters, Janet Scott (Chester) and Lisa Keith; sons, Anthony Jenkins (Louise) and Charles Daniels Jr. — 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.

Daniels loved the bond he shared with all of his cousins and friends. He will be profoundly missed and lovingly remembered.

Family and friends are invited to attend a visitation from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, August 29 at Scott Chapel United Methodist Church, 420 Highway Avenue, Blackshear.

Homegoing services will be held Saturday, August 30, 2025, at 1 p.m., at Scott Chapel United Methodist Church.

Interment will be at The Ridge Cemetery located at 5610 Aarons Way, Patterson.

For the repass, the family will convene at the Thomas Smith, Jr. Social Annex, St. James Baptist Church — The Ridge, 5610 Aarons Way, Patterson. All are welcome.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Harrington Family Funeral Services, 1100 Ossie Davis Parkway, Waycross, 31501. (912) 283-6162.