Tributes

On March 19, 1948, in Galveston, Texas, God gifted the world with James Edward Daniels, born to Joe Clinton Sr. and Mildred Baldwin Daniels. Raised in a strong Christian home, James was taught the love of Christ, honor, respect, responsibility, and the importance of family. He gave his life to Christ at Rising Star Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. D. N. Benford, Sr., where he was baptized and remained a faithful lifelong member. As a youth, he sang in the Intermediate Choir, was active in the Youth Department, and served as a Boy Scout. As an adult, he continued his service in the Male Chorus and other ministries. Educated in La Marque Public Schools, James was affectionately known as “Big Dan.” His hearty laugh was unforgettable, and his presence left a lasting mark on his classmates. A proud graduate of historic Lincoln High School Class of 1966, he lived by its motto and often declared, “Once an Eagle, always an Eagle.” Professionally, James served the City of Texas City with dedication for over 21 years, retiring in 2005. Yet his greatest call was ministry. Answering God’s call, he was ordained at Rising Star Missionary Baptist Church and went on to serve faithfully as a preacher, evangelist, and pastor. His ministry extended beyond church walls into prisons, jails, neighborhoods, and communities across Texas and beyond. He founded a Prison Ministry recognized statewide, pastored New Way Missionary Baptist Church, and later launched Rescue & Recovery, a family Bible study that grew into a vibrant weekly gathering for young adults and neighbors seeking God’s Word in an open, welcoming space. Rev. Daniels was also a tireless labor leader and community activist. A proud union member for over 50 years, he served with United Steelworkers Local 13-1, where he was instrumental in organizing workers across Galveston County. He rose to Vice President in 2005, fighting for labor rights, equity, and justice. His civic engagement included leadership in the NAACP, A. Philip Randolph Institute, Concerned Citizens and Ministers, Mainland United Task Force, and many other organizations. He co-founded the Texas City Police Department West End Ministers’ Alliance and was a charter member of the National Museum of African American History. On September 13, 2025, Reverend James Edward Daniels completed his earthly assignment and returned to his Heavenly Father at the age of 77. He is reunited with his parents, grandparents, his brother Sylvester Daniels, and other loved ones who preceded him in death. He leaves to cherish his memory: his children, Eddie (Crystal) Daniels, Rev. Joe C. (Tyaisha) Daniels III, Joshua (Amanda) Daniels, Hope (Johnathan) Daniels-Bell, and Matthew (Raquel) Daniels; brother, Joe Daniels; his aunts, Maudel Haywood and Geraldine Murray; his special friend Dr. Edna Courville; nieces, nephews, cousins, classmates, church family, and a host of friends.

Tributes

Rev. James Edward Daniels

March 19, 1948 - September 13, 2025