Obituary of Jerry Ray McDaniel

Jerry McDaniel was born in a humble little home in Chadbourn, N.C., nd raised in West Virginia. At 17 years old Jerry tracked down his father, Luther, and asked for his signature to join the Marines despite opposition from his mother, Esther.

Shortly after joining the Marines, Jerry found himself heading off to Vietnam where he spent the next 18 months of his 1-day shy of 5 years’ of service.

When Jerry arrived back to the United States, he was stationed in Oceanside, CA. at Camp Pendleton. While in California, he met the love of his life, Martha Rehnert which followed with marriage and children.

Jerry sought after a career in auto sales, he was a natural and enjoyed it finding success and leading to him being promoted to sales manager. Jerry also attended the University of Southern California for business management.

Jerry’s interests in life were his family and mostly the little things that others would overlook but to him were valued. He enjoyed traveling with his wife Martha and social gatherings with close friends. He was always open to listen to anyone that had something to share and engaged attentively.

He was selfless and cared most about those that surrounded him. He would feed you if you were hungry and extended himself even if it meant hurting himself financially to care for another. He believed in forgiveness, being loving without passing judgement.

Jerry and Martha spent 50 years together with 49 of those years in marriage. His wife and his children were his life and happiness. He always made sure to express the importance of family and sticking together.

Jerry had a smile that would make the whole room smile with him and a laugh that no one could forget. His loving, friendly, carefree nature was welcoming and impacted those that met him.

Jerry has left a legacy with his children and grandchildren all of whom cherish him dearly. He is a man that will be remembered for his generosity, strength, advice, loving heart and willingness to give.

He is survived by his wife, Martha; children: Christopher, Nicholas, Stephanie, Tiffany and grandchildren: Leilani, Sabastian, Dazie, Nathan, Jacob, Michael, Miles, Abigail, Travis and Adin.