In Loving Memory of Vernon Gary Daniels

It is with profound sadness and deep gratitude for a life well lived that we announce the passing of Vernon Gary Daniels, affectionately known as Verne. Surrounded by the love of his family and friends, Verne passed away peacefully at his home in Mobile, Alabama, on June 22, 2026, at the age of 80, following complications related to Agent Orange exposure.

Funeral services will be held 12 pm, Friday, June 26, 2026 at Cope-Keahey Funeral Home Chapel. The family will receive friends one hour prior to services at Cope-Keahey Funeral Home. Interment will in Spring Hill Methodist Cemetery with military honors.

Verne was born on August 9, 1945, in Anamosa, Iowa, to Ralph and Evelyn Daniels. He was raised on the family farm in Whiting, Iowa, where he developed the strong work ethic, resilience, and values that would guide him throughout his life.

Following high school, Verne answered his country's call and was drafted into the United States Army. He served honorably during the Vietnam War, demonstrating the courage, dedication, and patriotism that remained hallmarks of his character for the rest of his life.

After returning home, Verne built a respected career as a sprinkler fitter, earning the admiration of colleagues and friends through his integrity, craftsmanship, and unwavering commitment to hard work.

In 1984, Verne met the love of his life, Willie Mae. Together they built a life centered on love, family, adventure, and shared purpose. Their years were filled with travel, work, and treasured memories before they retired together to Mobile, Alabama, in 2000.

Verne was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend. He is survived by his beloved wife, Willie Mae Daniels; his sons, Shannon Daniels (Mae) and John O'Rourke III (Tanya); his daughter, Tonia McDougall (Scott); his sister, Connie Heyer; his brothers-in-law, Phil Farber, Greely Baggett, and Allen Bagget his devoted sister-in-law Bessie Baggett Dexter.

He leaves behind a cherished legacy through his grandchildren, Kayla Maliniemi (Brandon), Austin Cole Zane (Kelsey), Mackenzie Robbins (Jackson), and CJ Daniels, as well as his treasured great-grandchildren, John Michael, Emma, Atlas, Harper, Cooper, and Connor.

Verne is also lovingly remembered by his many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends whose lives were enriched by his kindness, humor, and steadfast presence.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Evelyn Daniels, and his sister, Eileen Farber.

Verne will be remembered for his unwavering love of family, his dedication to his country, his strong work ethic, and the countless lives he touched with his generous spirit. Though he will be deeply missed, his legacy of love, strength, and service will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.