Earl F. (Big Sonny) McDaniel Sr., 65, of Buena Vista, Virginia, went to Heaven on March 5, 2013, at his home.

He was born October 23, 1947, the son of the late Russell McDaniel and Virginia Truslow McDaniel Clark.

In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his daughter, Tammy Lynn McDaniel; a baby sister, Doris McDaniel; and his stepfather, Henry D. Clark.

Mr. McDaniel was a member of the New Life Fellowship Church of God of Prophecy, worked at McQuay as a maintenance technician, where he left behind many friends, and loved to deer hunt and fish.

Earl had many friends that were like family to him. "Big Sonny" proudly served his country during the Vietnam War and was a member of the V.F.W.

Earl is survived by his wife, Judy Layton McDaniel; his beloved son, Earl "Lil Sonny" McDaniel Jr. and wife, Melissa; three pride and joy grandsons, Drew, Matt, and Kayden; one sister, Linda Miller and Ronnie; one brother, Roger McDaniel and JoAnn; two stepsisters, Thelma Taylor and Lee; Shirley Flint and Garry; one aunt, Edna Truslow; one niece and six nephews.

A funeral service will be conducted 2 p.m. Saturday, March 9, 2013, at Bolling, Grose & Lotts Funeral Chapel with the Rev. Rudy Hilderbrand officiating. Burial will follow at Green Hill Cemetery.

The family request no flowers, and that memorial contributions be made to the New Life Fellowship Church of God of Prophecy or the Buena Vista Rescue Squad in honor of his son, Earl F. McDaniel Jr.

The family will receive friends 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, March 8, 2013, at the Bolling, Grose, & Lotts Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Buena Vista.