Mary "Virginia" Daniel

With profound sadness and unwavering faith in God's promises, we announce the passing of Mary "Virginia" Daniel, a devoted wife, loving mother, faithful Christian, and cherished friend. She entered peacefully into the presence of her Lord and Savior on February 21, 2026.

Mary "Virginia" Daniel was born July 3, 1928, in Springfield, Illinois, to Frank Lee and Cora Elizabeth (Bryan) Renetzky. Virginia had five older siblings and one younger brother. Her father, Frank - whom she always lovingly referred to as "Daddy" - passed away on September 29, 1938. After his death, her mother, Cora - Virginia's hero - raised her and her younger brother, Larry. Virginia spoke of her mother often and with great esteem, carrying her example of strength and faith throughout her life.

In 1946, she married her high school sweetheart, Donovan White, with whom she had her first child in 1947. Tragically, "Don" was killed in an automobile accident in 1953.

On May 15, 1954, in Springfield, Illinois, she married a young pastor, Arthur Daniel. Together, they embraced the challenging and joyful mission of building and growing churches. Beginning with Grandview Baptist Church in Quincy, Illinois, their ministry continued at Elliott Avenue Baptist (Springfield, IL), First Baptist (Bedford, IN), Memorial Baptist (Fort Wayne, IN), and First Baptist (Toledo, OH). As a Pastor and "Preacher's Wife," their shared calling was one of faithful service, leadership, and devotion to American Baptist churches across Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio.

Virginia lived a rich life of service to others. Her Christian faith was the cornerstone of who she was. She loved Jesus wholeheartedly and reflected His love through hospitality, encouragement, and tireless dedication to her church families. She also found great joy in gardening. She loved tending her flowers and plants, and her beautiful gardens were a reflection of her patience, creativity, and gentle spirit.

For the last ten years of her exemplary life, she carried that same dedication of service to the staff and residents at Georgetown Place in Fort Wayne, Indiana, where she lived. She will be fondly remembered for her radiant smile, her child-like joy and curiosity, her beauty inside and out, her pride in her five sons and their families, and above all, her unwavering love of Jesus.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Rev. Arthur G. Daniel.

She is survived by her five sons: Terry W. (Ann), Arthur G., Jr. (Gene), Bryan D. (Beth), Mark D. (Janet), and John M. (Amy); her brother, Larry (Carol) Renetzky; 11 grandchildren: Bethany, Jason, Bryan, Jessica, Cora, Estelle, Claire, Sierra, Hope, Emma, and Grace; 12 great-grandchildren: Hanna, Will, Lauren, Jack, Luke, Cameron, Kingsley, Lucas, Elise, Theo, Arlo, and Oliver; along with many dear nieces, nephews, extended family members, and countless friends.

Though our hearts ache in her absence, we rejoice in knowing she has heard the words, "Well done, good and faithful servant." Her legacy of faith, love, joyful service, and devotion to family will continue through the many lives she shaped.

Memorials to FWCS Foundation