Doris Ann Daniels Obituary in Gastonia at Gregory Funeral Service

Obituary For Doris Ann Daniels

Doris Ann Crank Daniels, affectionately known by her family as Andee, transitioned to her Heavenly home on Saturday, May 13, 2023. Doris was born on April 6, 1943, to Will and Mattie Gaston Crank in Gastonia, NC.

A proud Highland Rams graduate (Class of 1961), she served as a Girl Scout, Vice President of NHA and was Homecoming Queen. She went on to study initially at Elizabeth City State University then later graduated from Shaw University with a degree in Sociology. Driven by her love for children, Doris earned her Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential which afforded her the opportunity to teach preschool, lead Head Start classrooms in Salisbury and China Grove, NC, before a stint as a Regional Director for Head Start of Monmouth County (NJ). Doris was also a Case Manager for the Pathways-My House Program, in Gastonia, and in her later years she was a substitute teacher for Gaston County Schools and voting poll worker.

Doris was a faithful member of Mount Calvary Missionary Baptist Church in Gastonia since her youth and served in many capacities, including Sunday School Teacher and Constitution & Bylaws Committee Member, but her most prized role was as a member of the Mount Calvary Hymn Choir.

Doris was preceded in death by her parents and her sisters, Helen Hudson, Barbara Rhem, and Cozette Quamina as well as her brothers, William Gaston, James “Sonny” Crank, Excell Crank, and Paul Crank.

She is survived by her devoted daughter and caregiver, Shawna, her son, Scott (Jessica), her sister - Edna “Billie” Daniels (Freddie) of Long Branch, NJ and one brother - Jimmie Crank (Christiana) of Newark, NJ along with her three grandchildren Alexi Rayana, Abe Alex, and Ohene; her former husband, Abe Daniels of Salisbury, NC; and her Godmother, Mrs. Lillian Pryor Williams of Gastonia. Although all of her family was important to her, she shared a very special bond with her niece, Debbie Johnson of Neptune, NJ. She is also survived by a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends. Doris touched many individuals and played a special role in their lives, far too many to list.

“Goodbyes are only for those who love with their eyes; because for those who love with their souls, there is no such thing as separation” -Rumi

Memorial service on Friday; May 19, 2023 at the funeral home at 12:30 with thirty minute visitation (12 noon)

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Blossoms in Vogue was sent for Doris Ann Daniels - May 16, 2023

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Doris Crank Daniels was that kind of woman in my life. She always made me feel as if I were the smartest person around and that I could accomplish any and everything I put my hand and mind to. She did that for more than just me. Everyone she touched felt a special connection because of that bold, infectious, inviting, and yes sometimes domineering but loving and accepting personality. Some say blood is thicker than water but I'm grateful that Doris proved over and over throughout her life that family doesn't necessarily have to share DNA and I'm glad she is a part of my family and I a part of hers, forever. She reminded me that she was my ONLY FRIEND and all I needed was her. I will miss my friend... thank you for being a friend. We traveled the road and back again. You're a pal and a confidant. And if you threw a party, invited everyone you knew. You would see the biggest gift would be from me and the card attached would say, thank you for being a friend.

Prayers going up for the Daniels Family. Marcus & L'Tanya Campbell

Shawna sorry for your loss.Future Scholars Childcare sends their condolences to you and your family

My Sincere condolences. We spent many Piedmont Charter field trips together. YOu were such a wise sweet lady! May you rest in peace. Praying for comfort for your family. I know you will be sorely missed.

To my forever NEIGHBOR, we lived beside each other for a couple years before we called each other our names, we just called each other neighbor.My family are truly sad to hear you are no longer with us, thanks for the love you gave while here on this earth,I will miss your delicious chili that if I asked you would always make me a bowl. You will also be missed when we open the doors at Erwin Center at election time. We love you and family you will be in our prayers .Love, Ivan,Nelda,Petey,Devin and Zayla

Sorry for your loss, ya have my condolences praying for the family.kathy Friday Brown Gastonia NC

Although we lost touch for a while due to relocations, I always considered Ann as one of my best friends. I could never have made it through my daughter's first years with out Ann (and Shawna and Scott), by my side whenever I needed her. Amazing lady with the strength and dedication most only dream of. Prayers for all the family.

To the Family you have my deepest condolences, I will miss my sister in Christ, my church family member, love you so much You will be greatly missed Debra Rendleman

Such a sweet and kind soul. She helped take care of my Mom until my Mom's passing. I meet her through my sister who was a very good friend to Doris. She will be missed tremendously and I will always love Ms.Doris❤️

Family I am in mourning with you. Ann was a friend. Always smiling and laughter when we talked. She at peace resting in the arms of the Lord. Trust the Holy Spirit; He is our comforter.

Ann rest until I see you again Brenda Neely Jones your class mate

Gone but not forgotten, Ann rest until I see You again your friend and class mate

Sincere condolences to the family.

I have known this sweet Lady for all of Abe and Elijah life. I watched her raise Abe and his sister. I watched her love and adore her family and her door was always open to all of the kids that Abe would bring home. Elijah and Abe always have said that they were brothers because they loved and fought like brothers,and She would always remind the boys of their friendship. Elijah loved her like a grandmother and me and her would meet and have breakfast and share wisdom and my kids and hers because Lexia and Abe were hers. She will be greatly missed by so many people.praying for all of you Love you all.

Shawna, Know that I am thinking of you as you move forward in this new journey. Take time to breathe. Your mother was so lucky to have a daughter like you.
Smile, Flo

My condolences to the family of Doris Crank Daniels. James M. Miller Highland High School, Class of 1961

Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.

Gregory Funeral Service | Gastonia, NC