George Thomas (Tom) Daniels

Born in 1931 in Winter Haven, Florida to Heyward Thomas Daniels and Myrtle Herrington Daniels, he graduated from Winter Haven High School. He enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, serving as an Airman First Class during the Korean War. Following his service, he returned to Winter Haven and married Elouise Smith. Together they had four children: Julie, Karen, Alan and Matthew. Tom earned an Associate Degree at Polk Community College as a member of their charter class, and attended the University of South Florida. He had a long career with State Farm Insurance in Winter Haven and Atlanta, retiring in 1994. He was an active member of the church and choir at Parkway Baptist Church in Duluth, Georgia.

Tom had many different hobbies. In his 20’s he built cars for the Daniels Racing Team, racing cars at various NASCAR tracks, including the Daytona dirt track. He was an avid hiker, spending many days on the Appalachian and Florida Trails. In his retirement, he enjoyed golfing and perfected his woodworking skills. His children’s homes are blessed with many of the pieces he crafted.

Tom is survived by his children Julie Thomas (Joel), Auburndale, FL; Karen Hoyt (Tyler) Alpharetta, GA; Alan Daniels (Arleta) Duluth, GA; and LT Matthew Daniels (CAPT David Hammell) Springfield, VA; grandchildren Sean, Jake, Connor, Emily, Clarisse and Serena,; sister Jeanne Rose (Joe), brother Frank Daniels (Annette), sister-in-law Patsy Daniels, former wife and friend Elouise McManis, as well as many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Albert Daniels and niece Joanne Daniels.

A memorial and burial of remains will be held at 2:00pm, Saturday, November 22, at Ott-Laughlin Funeral Home and Glen Abbey Memorial Gardens in Auburndale, Florida with a reception to immediately follow.

Memorial contributions are welcome, and if desired, may be made to The American Diabetes Foundation, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, or The Winter Haven Hospital Foundation.

Many thanks to the staffs at Atria of North Point, North Fulton Hospital and Embracing Hospice for their compassion and support.