William L. "Benny" Daniels, a lifelong resident of Charlestown, entered into eternal life unexpectedly on Monday, Veterans Day, November 11, 2013 at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston. He was 66 years old.
Benny was born in Cambridge on August 25, 1947, a son of the late Paul L. Daniels and Helen L. (Hally) Daniels -Carr. He grew up in Charlestown where he was educated in the Boston Public School system and graduated from Charlestown High School. He enlisted into the United States Army on July 21, 1967 and served his country with pride and honor during the Vietnam Conflict. He was honorably discharged on July 15, 1969 with the rank of Sergeant. Benny worked on the Boston waterfront as a Longshoreman and was a member of the International Longshorman's Association Local # 799 for over 40 years. He was a member of The Old Charlestown Schoolboys Association, Bunker Hill Council # 62, Knights of Columbus and Boston American Legion Post # 0462.He enjoyed reading and volunteered with the Charlestown Boys & Girls Club swim team and Charlestown youth hockey for several years.
Benny is the loving husband of 34 years to Joan M. (Connolly) Daniels. He is the devoted father of Paul W. Daniels and his fiancée Katie of West Roxbury, Kevin P. Daniels of Charlestown and Megan K. Daniels of Charlestown. He is the beloved brother of Paula McGee and her husband Robert of Medford, Elaine Graham of Somerville and Mary O'Brien and her husband Bill of Lynnfield. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend Benny's Funeral on Friday, November 15, 2013 at 9 A.M. from The Carr Funeral Home, 220 Bunker Hill St. Charlestown followed by his Funeral Mass in St. Mary's Church, 55 Warren St. Charlestown at 10 A.M. Interment is private. Visiting hours will be on Thursday, November 14, 2013 from 4 to 8 P.M. in the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, kindly make a memorial donation in Benny's name to The Charlestown Boys & Girls Club, 15 Green St. Charlestown, Mass. 02129.