William Ray “Bill” Daniels, 81, of Falcon died Jan. 17, 2024, at the Harry S. Truman Veterans Hospital in Columbia. Mr. Daniels attended grade school in Pevely and Herculaneum before moving to California. After graduating high school in Long Beach, Calif., he served in the U.S. Air Force at Elmendorf Air Force Base in Anchorage, Alaska. During his service, he received several commendations including the Good Conduct Medal, Cold War Service Medal and Vietnam Service Medal. He became a life member of VFW Post 3770 in Mountain Grove and a member of American Legion Post 1000 in Jefferson City. After returning home from the military, he married Lois Smith on June 25, 1968. Later that same year, he began his career with PPG Glass Company in Crystal City where he worked for more than two decades before retiring in 1991. Following his retirement, he continued his educational journey by taking college courses and obtaining a bachelor's degree and completing a building trades course. Above everything, he was a family man. He will be remembered for his kindness, caring nature and quick wit. Born Dec. 2, 1942, in Festus, he was the son of the late Cora Laverne (Bannister) and William Phillip Daniels II.
He is survived by wife: Lois Daniels; a daughter: Billie Jo Daniels; two granddaughters: Jodee and Jolee Daniels; a great-grandson: Jasper Givens; two brothers: Joseph White and Charles White; and many other Family Members and friends.
He was preceded in death by a stepson: Earl "Butch" Coplin Jr.; and three sisters: Denita Daniels, Joyce Watz and Anna Hahn.
Graveside services with full military honors are scheduled for 2 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 24, in the Lone Star Cemetery, located south of Mountain Grove, officiated by the Rev. Josh Haney. Pallbearers include Linnie Smith, Joey Chalfant, Brad Givens, Yogi Smith, Scott Archer and Clint Chalfant. Honorary pallbearers include Tina McDowell, Leslie Maggard, Vanna Archer and Russell Smith. Arrangements are under the direction of Craig-Hurtt Funeral Home in Mountain Grove.