Norwood “Woody” Daniels was born on January 15, 1953, in Los Angeles, California, to John and Sarah Daniels. He was raised in a loving home and enjoyed a happy childhood filled with laughter, adventure, and strong family bonds. Woody was a fun-loving and caring brother who spent much of his youth playing with his siblings, nieces, and neighborhood friends and held a special place in his heart for his lifelong friends, Tony, Devon, Bub, and Byron.

Woody loved the outdoors and could often be found running around the neighborhood, flying kites, or getting into harmless mischief with his brother, Elwood. Saturdays were special to Woody—he enjoyed watching his favorite shows like Bugs Bunny and Friends. He had a deep appreciation for Westerns, sci-fi, and classic television, including The Rifleman, My Three Sons, and The Three Stooges.

One of Woody’s greatest joys was raising pigeons, and he felt content when he was fully surrounded by them.

Woody was known for his kind heart and generous spirit. He was always willing to lend a helping hand, give to others in need, and support those around him, often giving whatever he could, even if it meant his last dime. He loved his family deeply, especially his nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended loved ones.

He attended and graduated from Carver Junior High School and Thomas Jefferson High School, and later worked and received CNA training to assist in elderly care at Kingsley Manor Retirement Center in Los Angeles, where he took an interest in Sign Language. He wanted a change of scenery and made a big move to Lompoc, where he continued helping others and worked at Lompoc Valley CCC, until he retired.

Woody peacefully passed away on March 11, 2026, at the age of 73 at the Lompoc Valley Comprehensive Care Center in Lompoc, California. He received exceptional care from the nurses, doctors, and staff, for which his family is deeply grateful. He is now at rest, free from his battle with Parkinson’s disease and prostate complications.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Sarah Daniels; his siblings, Exie and Chuck; and his nephews, Donnell Sr., Hasani, and niece Terri.

Woody leaves behind a loving family who will cherish his memory forever, including his siblings Gracie, Elwood Sr. (Blossy), and Wadree Daniels-Smith (Lee). He is also survived by his very special nieces and nephews: Cathy (Ken), Aprill, David E. Sr., Elwood Jr., Theresa, Ira, and many great-nieces and nephews, including Shatovia, Shavanna, David Jr., Charnae & David Alex, Jaynesha, D’Shon, Zontae Sr., Donnell Jr., Kristie, Zanae, and his niece-in-law, Kimi Russell, along with many great-great nieces and nephews, Joshua, Kenny, Joel & Lacy; Neish, Terrence, Brandon & Nina; Blake, Alyssa & Nick; Amaurei, Chardae, Jazzy & Kylan; TeKiah, Andre, Jr., Arias & A'silas; Langston & Anai; Zontae, Jr., & Carmello, and 2 great-great-great baby girls. As well as cousins, the Williams and Lewis families, and extended family friends Willie, Carol, and Eva T.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the Lompoc Valley Comprehensive Care Center for the compassion and care shown to Woody during his time there. They are also thankful for the outpouring of love, support, and kindness from friends, neighbors, and loved ones during this time. 

Woody, we will keep you in our hearts forever. You are missed and deeply loved by all of us. God will bless your journey and keep you in His Memory!