Margaret Pauline McDaniel

Margaret Pauline McDaniel obituary, Covington, TN

Margaret Pauline McDaniel

Margaret McDaniel Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Maley-Yarbrough Funeral Home on Jan. 21, 2026.
Margaret Pauline McDaniel, age 97, passed away peacefully on January 19, 2026. She was born on April 28, 1928, and lived a life filled with love, laughter, faith, and generosity.

Pauline, lovingly known to her siblings as "Polly," was the oldest child and proudly carried that role with a fun-loving, spirited personality. She never met a stranger and had a gift for making friends wherever she went. Her heart was as bright as the colorful things she adored, and her sense of humor made her truly unforgettable.

A devoted churchgoer, Pauline cherished her faith and her friends. She gave freely to others, always willing to help in any way she could. Though sometimes a little gullible in the most endearing way, her kindness and trust in people only added to her charm.

Pauline was a huge Elvis fan and loved anything fun, lively, and full of color; much like her own personality. She made it a point to stay connected with her family, never missing a birthday and always sending a card with a check, followed by a phone call to make sure it had been cashed.

She knew the true value of life's simple joys, family, friendship, laughter, and love. Pauline never drove, but she was always well taken care of, jokingly receiving the "Driving Miss Daisy" treatment wherever she needed to go. No visit to her home was complete without being sent off with a Tops BBQ coupon in hand.

Pauline had a special affection for the staff at Gallaway Nursing Home, who cared for her with compassion and kindness. She appreciated them dearly and made sure they knew it.

Pauline was preceded in death by her parents, one brother, and one sister. She is survived by two nephews; Roy (Carolyn) Flynn and Robert (Nicki) McDaniel, two nieces; Lynn (Derrick) Osbourne and Rose Flynn, two great-nephews and two great-nieces.

After 97 wonderful, fulfilled years, Pauline leaves behind a legacy of generosity, humor, faith, and love. Her memory will be cherished by all who knew her, and she will be deeply missed.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

How to support Margaret's loved ones
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services, and cards.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor Margaret McDaniel's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sign Margaret McDaniel's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?