Theodore P. McDaniel, Sr.

Born: 1/26/1938
Died: 5/8/2013

Mr. Theodore P. McDaniel, Sr., known fondly as “Teddy,” age 75, of Newark, DE, passed away on Wednesday, May 8, 2013, surrounded by his loving family.
A native Delawarean, Mr. McDaniel was born in Wilmington on January 26, 1938, son of the late Samuel A. McDaniel and Grace B. Price McDaniel. He was a graduate of the H. Fletcher Brown Vocational High School and would go on to make his career with the United States Postal Service, where he retired as a supervisor after 27 years of service. In earlier years, he had also been proud to serve his country in the US Army National Guard.
Mr. McDaniel dedicated his life to the service of others. He volunteered as a coach and mentor for over 20 years with the Special Olympics and was named “Coach of the Year” for his commitment to inspiring achievement in his athletes and his passion for bettering the lives of all those with special needs. He was also active with the Sunday Breakfast Mission for many years. A devout Christian throughout his life, he was a longtime member of Marshallton United Methodist Church, where he served as president of the United Methodist Men.
A loving and devoted family man above all else, Mr. McDaniel delighted in spending time with his beloved wife, children, and grandchildren. He especially enjoyed traveling with his family and going on camping trips. As the unofficial family historian and photographer, he was careful to document all vacations, holidays, and special family gatherings.
Among his many hobbies, Mr. McDaniel was a keen and knowledgeable collector of vintage watches and clocks. He also enjoyed the challenge of bidding for interesting items at Hill’s Auction in Landenberg, PA.
He is survived by his loving wife of 47 years, Sharon Weiss McDaniel; son, Theodore P. McDaniel, Jr. and wife Gwen Livingston of Landenberg, PA; daughter, Deborah L. McDaniel of Newark, DE; brother, John G. McDaniel and wife Kathy of Elkton, MD; and grandchildren, Teague J., Boden P., and Paxton L. McDaniel.
A funeral service will be held at 10:30 am on Tuesday, May 14, 2013, at the Marshallton United Methodist Church, 1105 Stanton Road, Wilmington, DE 19808, where visitation will begin at 9:30 am. Interment will follow in Gracelawn Memorial Park, 2220 N. DuPont Parkway, New Castle, DE.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Mr. McDaniel may be made to the Sunday Breakfast Mission, P.O. Box 352, Wilmington, DE 19899; or Special Olympics, c/o University of Delaware, 619 S. College Avenue, Newark, DE 19716; or Marshallton United Methodist Church at the address above.