Ada McDaniel Obituary

Ada Bryant McDaniel, wife of Robert McDaniel, Sr., was born August 16, 1920, to the late Isaac and Augustus Powell Bryant in Bush Community of Aiken, South Carolina. Surrounded by her family, she peacefully entered eternal rest on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at Anchor Post Acute in Aiken, South Carolina. She was a beloved pillar of strength and encouragement in the community of Petticoat Junction, where she was known for her boundless compassion, unwavering generosity, motivational spirit, optimism, and remarkable perseverance. Ada was the youngest of five siblings in a close loving family. Her early life was shaped by the demanding work of farming and sharecropping, where she and her siblings toiled "from sunup to sundown" picking cotton. Despite the hardships, her parents instilled in her the profound value of education and hard work, principles she carried throughout her life and imparted to everyone she met. Though her formal education was cut short in the sixth grade due to family responsibilities, at the age of fifty, in 1970, she proudly earned her high school diploma from Martha Schofield High School. A lifelong member of Runs Missionary Baptist Church in Beech Island, SC, Ada's faith was a cornerstone of her life. In the early 1930s, Ada accepted Christ in her life, joined Runs Baptist Church, and was baptized in the Upper Three Runs Creek by Rev. W.M. Moody. She was a faithful member of the choir, Deaconess Ministry, Sunday School, Kitchen Committee, and Mother of the Church. She was famous for her homemade wine that was served during communion at the church. Ada also helped to create a daycare that was operational at Runs Baptist Church. Ada dedicated many years to serving the Aiken County Public School system, first as a cafeteria manager at Sleepy Hollow Elementary School. There she lovingly prepared meals for students and, to many, she became a cherished second mother and mentor; offering them hugs, food, and unwavering encouragement. Following school integration, she continued her impactful work as cafeteria manager at North Augusta Middle School for 20 years. Upon her retirement from Aiken County in 1991 at the age of 71, Ada embarked on a new educational journey, enrolling in classes at the University of South Carolina - Aiken. As the oldest student on campus at the time, her determination marveled both students and faculty. While attending college she excelled and took various courses in art, music, and computer technology. She then enrolled in classes at Odell Weeks Center where she learned ceramics. For many years at Christmas time, family and friends would receive their own personal, handcrafted ceramic gift from her. Ada was a tireless volunteer and community advocate. She volunteered her time to the March of Dimes, Area Church Together in Service (ACTS), and served as a testing monitor at Midland Valley High School. Additionally, she was instrumental in establishing a fire department in the Petticoat Junction area. Her efforts led to the implementation of a speed zone, caution light, and eventually a traffic light, enhancing safety for her community. Ada's extraordinary contributions did not go unnoticed. North Augusta Middle School honored her with a proclamation of Ada McDaniel Day which was featured in the North Augusta Star Newspaper. The USCA Pacers Times newspaper recognized her "as a pioneer." In January 2014, the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity in Aiken presented her with the prestigious Drum Major Award at their annual awards breakfast. Ada was preceded in death by her husband, parents, siblings (Gertrude Mitchell, Annie Bush, Fred Bryant, Dan Bryant), two sons (Leon Morgan and Robert McDaniel, Jr.) one grandchild (Tonya Morgan) and one great-grandson (David Smith). Ada leaves to celebrate her life and legacy three daughters: Joyce Bradley, Betty (James) Gallman, and Sandra Chavous: daughter in-law (Shirley Morgan): 13 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, and six great-great grandchildren who will forever cherish her memory and the profound lessons she imparted. Ada Bryant McDaniel lived a life of purpose, leaving an indelible mark on her family, her community, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her faith in God was the foundation of her life.