Florence McDaniel, of Brookings, passed away Wednesday, August 20, 2025 at the United Living Community in Brookings, SD. A Visitation from 9:00 am to 10:00 am at Bethel Baptist Church on Saturday, September 13, 2025 in Brookings, SD. A Memorial Service will be held following the Visitation at Bethel Baptist Church Saturday, September 13, 2025 at 10:00 am. The Interment service will follow out to Greenwood Cemetery in Brookings, SD.

Florence Elizabeth (Claussen) McDaniel was born December 13, 1928 in Arlington, South Dakota, to Ernst and Maude (Hubbard) Claussen, along with her identical twin sister, Florene.

Florence grew up in Arlington, South Dakota, and later moved to Sioux Falls in 1943. Where she would graduate from Washington High School in 1946.

Florence married Charles Wayne McDaniel on March 21, 1949 in Sioux Falls South Dakota. Together, they had four children David Wayne, who passed at 5 1/2 years old, James (Jim) Lee, Sharon Elizabeth, who passed at 23 years old, and Susan (Sue) Kathleen.

In 1965 the family moved to the Chicago area in order for Wayne to attend National College of Chiropractic, Lombard, Illinois.  This is when Florence, too, returned to continue her education as a cosmetologist. She operated a beauty shop in their home to be able to bring financial stability to the family. Her main objective was to remain in the household as a present mother. In 1970, the family relocated to Brookings, SD to open their chiropractic office, where they have remained until their deaths.

Florence had several noteworthy achievements, such as, working with youth as a Boy Scout Den Mother, 4-H Leader, and AWANA Leader. Florence emersed herself in her church, wherever she lived, as a leader of Bible studies, Sunday School Teacher, mentor to young mothers, and a regular attender.

As Grandma Florence, she was a constant in her grandchildren's lives and care. She was a valuable assistant in her daughter's, Sue, Child Care business for many years.

Florence had many interests and hobbies, such as, being an avid reader; knowing family history; she was proficient at cooking, baking, sewing, knitting, crocheting, counted cross stitch, stamping, hardanger, and decorating cakes for many weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, and special occasions, as well as, items molded out of sugar. She even tried painting, and lastly, she was willing to share her knowledge and ability with anyone who needed help.

Throughout her life, Florence was a member of Bethel Baptist Church; P.E.O. since 1963 – Currently, Chapter CA, Brookings, SD; Brookings Hospital Auxiliary; American Legion Auxiliary; Girls State Scholarship Committee; Saturday Literary Club; Birthday Club; Grief Support Group – Later known as the Volga Gals; Senior Center; and various Extension Clubs.

Florence is survived by her daughter, Susan (Van) Kelley; daughter-in-law, Joyce McDaniel; sister-in-law, Noriko McDaniel; grandchildren: Rachel (Matt) Franklin; Elly Jo (Reese) Wagner; Emily (Marcus) Kelley; Jay (Jennifer) Kelley; J.V. (Elizabeth) Kelley; Judge (Ryan Souter) Kelley; Adam (Rachelle) McDaniel; great-grandchildren: Avery, Audrey, & Tucker Franklin; Weston, Jocelyn, & Abby Wagner; Finn Kelley; Jeffrey (Angie) Everman; Jadyn, Jenna, & Jack Kelley; Grace, Maple, & Dalton Kelley; J.D. & Gabe McDaniel; and great-great-granddaughter, Lilly Everman; along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Her special friends, Tyler & Kayla Hanson, and their daughters, Ellia & Sophie.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Wayne McDaniel; sons, David McDaniel and James (Jim) McDaniel; daughter, Sharon Zoellner; her parents, Ernst and Maude Claussen; brothers, Gordon and Paul Claussen; twin sister, Florene Prunty; and brother-in-law, Kenneth Prunty.

A special recognition & thank you to all the individuals that cared for Mom's social and physical needs throughout her life, especially her church family at Bethel Baptist Church, as well as, her neighbors and friends.