James Riley Daniels, Sr., 84, of Wray, Georgia, died Friday, April 3, 2026, at Memorial Health University Medical Center in Savannah, Georgia.
A celebration of life will be held 11 AM, Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at Brushy Creek Primitive Baptist Church in Irwin County, Georgia with the Rev. Joey Whitley officiating and a eulogy delivered by Rusty Daniels. Interment will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends from 10 AM until the service hour in the church sanctuary.
Mr. Daniels was born November 25, 1941, in Berrien County, Georgia, to the late John Thomas & Mildred Lois Griffin Daniels. He was a 1961 graduate of Irwin County High School and grew up attending Brushy Creek Primitive Baptist Church where he served as an ordained deacon for many years. Mr. Daniels was a retired farmer and retired from the Transportation Department at Irwin County Schools after 16 years of service. He enjoyed gardening, hunting, fishing and watching western movies. Mr. Daniels was a member of Ocilla Baptist Church.
He is survived by his wife, Paula Daniels of Wray, a daughter, Tammy Bennett (Charlie) of Coffee County, a son, James Jr., “Rusty” Daniels (Karen) of Ocilla; grandchildren: John Elec Bennett (Breanna) and Bryan Youghn (Jennifer); great grandchildren: Olivia Claire Bennett, Jax Youghn, Zach Youghn and Zoey Youghn; a brother, Bruce Daniels; a special niece, Jennifer Lowe (Joey); as well as several other nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Gene Daniels and a sister, Bonnie Scott.
In honor of Mr. Daniels, the family requests everyone attending the service wear a white shirt and casual dress.
The family suggests in lieu of flowers, those desiring to send memorials, please send memorials to a charity of your choice in honor of Mr. Daniels.
Paulk Funeral Home, Ocilla, is in charge of arrangements.