Catherine McDaniel

Catherine Rasberry McDaniel was born on April 9, 1934, in Lenoir County, Grifton, North Carolina, to the late Roy and Bessie Rasberry. Raised in a Christian home, Catherine accepted Christ at an early age and faithfully dedicated her life to serving God and others. She graduated from Ayden High School in Ayden, North Carolina. In 1956, she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Home Economics Education with a minor in General Science from North Carolina Central University. She later obtained a Master of Arts degree in Guidance and Counseling from Hampton University in 1971 and pursued additional graduate studies in Education Administration and Supervision at Virginia Tech and Old Dominion University. Catherine began her teaching career at Belhaven High School in North Carolina. From 1968 until her retirement in 1996, she taught Home Economics in the Norfolk Public School System. A respected and devoted educator, Catherine was recognized with many awards and honors, including the distinguished School Bell Award for her outstanding service to education. She also served as a mentor, advisor, and leader through various organizations such as FHA/HERO, the State Advisory Council, and curriculum development programs for Master Teachers. She joined Faith Acts Church in Chesapeake, Virginia, in 1986, where she remained a faithful and dependable member until her transition. She served in numerous church ministries including Vacation Bible School, the nursery program, and the church secretary’s office. Catherine believed in being of service wherever God placed her. Outside of her many commitments, Catherine found deep joy in the things that reflected both her spiritual devotion and her intellectual curiosity. She spent countless hours reading her Bible and the teachings of Kenneth E. Hagin from the Rhema Faith Library—works that deepened her walk with Christ. She also had a lifelong interest in nutrition and medicine, studying books that explored the intersection of science, wellness, and faith. A gifted cook and baker, Catherine loved preparing elaborate homemade meals drawn from a rich library of gourmet cookbooks and cherished family recipes. Her warmth truly filled the kitchen. One of her greatest delights in later years was spending time with her grandchildren watching movies and television—especially her favorite shows Gilmore Girls and 7th Heaven, as well as Hallmark Channel Original Movies, especially during the holidays. Catherine was united in holy matrimony to the late Stanley L. McDaniel in December 1958. Together, they were blessed with one son, Darien Shelton McDaniel. Catherine often said that being his mother was one of the greatest blessings of her life. In him, she saw the spirit of God—a faith-filled minister and a principled, accomplished businessman, following in his father's footsteps. From a young age, she lovingly dedicated him to the Lord. Their bond was unshakable, anchored in faith, prayer, and deep mutual respect. She poured into him spiritually, emotionally, and intellectually, and in return, he brought her immeasurable pride and joy. Her love for him was enduring and spoken of with reverence. Catherine also leaves behind her beloved daughter-in-law, Bonnie S. McDaniel, and her cherished legacy in her beloved grandchildren: Taylor-Morgan McDaniel, a retail executive who soon will be completing her business degree at the Forbes School of Business, and Darien Shelton McDaniel II, a wealth manager who soon will be completing his degree in economics and data analytics from the University of Pennsylvania. She was immensely proud of their accomplishments and unwavering in her love, guidance, and support for them. Her eyes would light up with joy when speaking of them, and she prayed fervently for their success, peace, and spiritual growth with God and our Lord Jesus Christ. She wished to be remembered as a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and friend—known for her kindness, strength, and unwavering faith in her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. To honor Catherine’s lifelong commitment to faith, education, and uplifting the next generation, the family kindly requests that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Black Girl White Coat, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing opportunities, mentorship, and scholarships to Black and Hispanic women pursuing careers in healthcare. "Well done, good and faithful servant." - Matthew 25:23. "So shall we ever be with the Lord." - 1 Thessalonians 4:17

Catherine McDaniel

April 9, 1934 - April 26, 2025