Dick Benjamin Daniels

Richard "Dick" Benjamin Daniels May 22, 1948 – July 25, 2025 Dick Daniels, 77, of Tunkhannock, PA, passed away peacefully Friday at his home on Lake Carey. A lifelong educator, mentor, and community champion, Dick dedicated his life to the growth of others—whether in the classroom, on the track, or across his beloved hometown. Born in Meshoppen, Dick was the son of the late Carlton "Huck" John Daniels and Ella Agnes (Bowman) Firestine. He was also preceded in death by his brother, Robert "Bob" Carlton Daniels, and his son, John "Jack" William Daniels. A proud 1966 graduate of Tunkhannock Area High School, Dick went on to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Education from Bloomsburg University. He later received a Master of Education from Wilkes University and a second Master’s degree in Educational Administration from the University of Scranton. Dick spent 35 years with the Tunkhannock Area School District, serving as a middle school science teacher, an elementary guidance counselor, and later as an elementary principal. He was deeply respected by colleagues and students for his energetic leadership, passionate storytelling, and lifelong commitment to youth, running, and his community. Dick was known for his fun-loving nature and quick wit. He always had a story to share, usually punctuated by a corny joke. He championed others believing in people regardless of their status or past mistakes. Whether you were a student, an athlete, a neighbor, or someone passing through town, Dick met you with genuine curiosity and encouragement. He saw the good in people and made sure they saw it in themselves. Dick exemplified civic responsibility. He volunteered for the Triton Hose Company and countless community organizations, serving as a board member for the Wyoming County Historical Society, the Wyoming County Community Health Foundation, and the Sunnyside Cemetery Association. His efforts helped preserve and uplift the community he so dearly loved. An accomplished runner and coach, Dick was a tireless advocate for youth and community athletics. He served for decades as the Varsity Track and Field and Cross Country Coach at Tunkhannock Area High School. He founded the Endless Mountains Running Club and was instrumental in establishing the Walter B. Tewksbury Developmental Track & Field Meet. Dick also created and directed several cherished local races, including The February Freeze, The Jack Daniels Mile, the Wyoming County Fair Run, and the Frank Valvano Memorial 10k, inspiring generations to run with purpose. In every organization he led, Dick held firmly to the belief that service should never be self-serving. Every dollar raised went directly back into the community—whether through scholarships, youth programs, or local charities. His generosity was was principled and genuine. Dick is survived by his wife, Lynn Carol (Greenley) Daniels; his daughter, Ella Louise Daniels, and son-in-law, Daniel Toye; his son, Robert "Bob" Clark Daniels, and daughter-in-law, Natosha (Folarin) Daniels; and his grandchildren, William Joseph Daniels, Aryssa Kadence Folasade Brown, and Ryann Lynn Yetunde Daniels. Dick’s life of service was enabled by the steadfast support of his wife. Lynn was the strong support that backed nearly everything he did and Lynn’s partnership was the quiet force behind his life. Dick's legacy lives on in his devoted family, the lives he touched, the races he ran, and the community he helped shape. A viewing will be held on Friday, August 8, from 6–8 PM at Harding Litwin Funeral Home in Tunkhannock. A funeral service celebrating his life will take place at 10 AM on Saturday, August 9, at Tunkhannock United Methodist Church, where he was a devoted lifelong member.