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Benjamin Franklin McDaniel, a Retired Master Sergeant in the United States Air Force, born on December 27, 1930 in Chimney Rock, NC to Ruth Cynthia Robertson and James Roland McDaniel.
He was raised by his adored foster parents Ira and Daisy Noblitt. He was peacefully called home on May 24, 2019 at his home in Royse City, TX.
He joined the United States Air Force in 1948 where he served 20 active years and 10 years reserved, he retired in 1978. He served during the Cold War, the Korean War and the Vietnam War. He served 1 year in Hawaii, before it was a state, he did two tours in England and served 1 year in Thailand. He was a lifetime member of the VFW and the Air Force Sergeant Association.
He was an avid bowler and proprietor in the bowling business for over 40 years. He served as the Assistant Fire Chief at the Fairfield Mountains Fire Department in Lake Lure, NC from 1981-1994 and was a retired charter member of the Fairfield Mountains Volunteer Fire Department. After serving 12 years he retired as Assistant Chief of Security of Fairfield Mountains. A couple of his most beloved outdoor activities included fishing and golfing with some of his closest friends and family. Baseball brought great joy to his life, from playing in his younger years to watching his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren play, as well as enjoying major league baseball games. Above and beyond, his family was the greatest love of his life.
Ben was preceded in death by his loving wife of 47 years, Alice Marie McDaniel; father James Roland McDaniel; mother Ruth Cynthia Robertson; foster parents Ira and Daisy Noblitt; brother, Wilburn Curtis McDaniel; foster brother Henry Coleman Noblitt; one grandson; and one great-great-granddaughter.
He is survived by his children: son David McDaniel and wife Rosie; daughter Suzi Haney; son Michael McDaniel; daughter Cindi Osborn and husband Wayne; and daughter Janice Wallace and husband Glenn.
He is survived by siblings: brother, William Marshall McDaniel and wife Sue of McKinney, TX; and foster sister Martha Jane Melton of Lake Lure, NC.
He is survived by fourteen grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, two great-great-grandchildren.
Funeral Services were held at Bills Creek Baptist Church, burial followed in the church cemetery.
Crowe's Mortuary and Crematory is serving the family.
