Willie Author McDaniels, affectionately known as “The Original Duck Plucka,” was born on February 6, 1955, in Dermott, Arkansas, to the late Annie Mae Stevenson and R.L. McDaniels. As the fourth of their children, Willie enjoyed a fulfilling childhood rooted in hard work and family. He assisted his mother in raising chickens and pigs and developed a love for outdoor activities such as fishing and hunting. He also spent time with his father, learning skills and values that would stay with him throughout his life.

Willie attended Morris Booker High School, graduating with the Class of 1973. Shortly hereafter, he answered the call to serve his country, dedicating over 16 years to the United States Army and National Guard, beginning his active duty on February 27, 1974. During his military career, he served as a Mobile Subscriber Equipment Transmission Systems Operator and Material \Supervisor. His commitment and excellence earned him numerous awards and commendations, and he was honorably discharged for his faithful service. Following his military career, Willie continued his service to others through his work at the Veterans Administration Hospital and the United States Postal Service, from which he later retired. A man of deep faith, Willie accepted Christ and became a devoted advocate of his beliefs. He faithfully served as the church van driver before being ordained as a Deacon at Gaines Street Baptist Church and was also a proud and active member of the Masonic Order.

In 1979, Willie married his love of life, Gloria Chaney of Arkansas City, Arkansas. Together, they shared 46 wonderful years of marriage and built a strong and loving family. From this union, they were blessed with ten children: Corey McDaniels, Erica McDaniels, Terrence McDaniels, Jacob McDaniels, Patrick Allen, Toney Allen, Jason Allen, Yolanda Allen, Derrick Vasser (Cassandra), and Angela Womack. Willie was preceded in death by three siblings: Floretta McDaniels, James McDaniels, and R.L. McDaniels. He leaves to cherish his memory of two loving sisters, Sadie Jiles-Lewis and Rosie Lee Perkins (Peaches), along with a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and many beloved family members, including sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, cousins nieces, nephews, and dear friends. Willie’s life was a testament to hard work, faith, service, and love for family. His legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Funeral Blues

by W.H. Auden

Stop all the clocks, cut off the telephone,Prevent the dog from barking with a juicy bone,Silence the pianos and with muffled drumBring out the coffin, let the mourners come.

Let aeroplanes circle moaning overheadScribbling on the sky the message He Is Dead,Put crepe bows round the white necks of the public doves,Let the traffic policemen wear black cotton gloves.

He was my North, my South, my East and West,My working week and my Sunday rest,My noon, my midnight, my talk, my song;I thought that love would last forever: I was wrong.

The stars are not wanted now: put out every one;Pack up the moon and dismantle the sun;Pour away the ocean and sweep up the wood;For nothing now can ever come to any good

Samuel L. Vance & Sons Funeral Directors

" The Epitome of Service "