James Samuel McDaniel

With heavy hearts, we regret to inform you of the passing of Mr. James McDaniel.

Mr. McDaniel passed away on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at The Palms at Florence in Florence, SC.

Arrangements will be announced by Davis Funeral Home, LLC, of Hartsville, SC.

“Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; they rod and thy staff they comfort me.”

                                                                               Psalm 23:4

James Samuel “Duke” McDaniel was born January 7, 1953, in Hartsville SC to Bennie J. McDaniel and Bernetha Hamlin. James departed this earthly life July 26, 2025.

James affectionately known as “Duke” received his formal education in the Darlington County Public School System. After high school, James worked for Coker Pedigree Seed Farm and Hartsville Fertilizing Mill. He was a member Centerville AME Church.

James had a love for cars! He enjoyed any and everything that was related to cars whether it was NASCAR racing, drag strip racing, or repairing cars. He also enjoyed fishing.

James was preceded in death by his father Bennie McDaniel; mother Bernetha Hamlin; sisters Elenora Johnson Sowells and Sharon McDaniel Squire; brothers Harold McDaniel, Tommy McDaniel, Bennie McDaniel Jr; and Larry McDaniel.

Surviving to cherish James’s memories are his loving wife Linda Bailey McDaniel; children Equitney (Tanya) Williams and Starla Bailey; sisters Aprill McDaniel, Adrian McDaniel, Malinda McDaniel (Lamar); Michelle McDaniel, Judy McDaniel, Mary McDaniel, Theresa (Robert) Johnson, and Barbara Ann (Mandingo) Bramble; brothers Wayne R. (Tyese) McDaniel, Terry (Loraine) McDaniel, Walter McDaniel (Avia Reed), Randy McDaniel, Chris McDaniel. Nelson McDaniel, Richard (Rita) Allen; five grandchildren, nine great- grandchildren; a host of nieces, nephews, other close relatives and friends.