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With heavy hearts, we share the passing of Daniel C. Sadler Sr., “Captain Dan,” who passed away peacefully Friday, November 14, 2025 at the age of 104 with his family by his side.
Left to cherish his memory is the love of his life, his wife of 81 years, Ramona Whitley Sadler; four children, Danny Sadler (Sherilyn), Donald Sadler (Susan), Nina Marshall (John) and Lois Taylor (Richard); nine grandchildren and their spouses; twenty-five great-grandchildren; and two great great-grandchildren. Their home was filled to the brim on many occasions.
He was a lifelong member of Battery Park Baptist Church. He was a pillar of strength and wisdom, an anchor in our family for over a century. To live 104 years is a rare and beautiful gift and what a blessing to be able to live it fully until the end. How fascinating it was to hear first hand his stories; the years spent as a waterman, tonging oysters from sunrise to sunset for nearly 60 years, also hunting and trapping as a young man supporting a large family. He shared memories of friends and family that passed long ago and later in life became the most recognized and applauded singer in the family. He witnessed a world that changed in unimaginable ways and through it all, he remained steady and full of life.
We are grateful for every moment we had with him. Though our hearts are heavy, we find comfort in knowing he lived a full and meaningful life, surrounded by love until the very end. We will miss him deeply, but his spirit lives on in each of us. We will be in heaven with him one day.
We love you forever!
A graveside service will be held on Saturday, November 22, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. at Battery Park Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family request memorials donations to a charity of your choice.
Online condolences may be registered at www.littlesfuneralhome.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
1515 S. Church Street, Smithfield, VA 23430
Memories and condolences can be left on the obituary at the funeral home website.

Please consider a donation as requested by the family.

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