Illa Mary Daniels

In Loving Memory of Illa Mary Daniels

June 15, 1934 - September 7, 2026

It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Illa Mary Daniels, who entered eternal rest on Labor Day, September 7, 2026, at The Ohio State University Medical Center, at the age of 92.

Born on June 15, 1934, in Columbus, Ohio, to Juanita McClure and Waldron McClure, Illa lived a life defined by faith, family, music, service, and unwavering determination. A devoted Catholic, loving mother, grandmother, aunt, cousin, mentor, and cherished friend, she touched countless lives through her kindness, strength, and steadfast dedication to the people and causes she held dear.

From an early age, Illa demonstrated a deep love for music. She attended Our Lady of the Woods High School, where she was educated by the Good Shepherd Sisters, and later attended Xavier University of Louisiana, the nation's only historically Black Catholic university, where she continued to nurture both her faith and musical gifts. During her time at Xavier, she toured throughout the South with the university choir, sharing her remarkable vocal talents with audiences far and wide.

Music remained one of Illa's greatest passions throughout her life. A gifted Coloratura Soprano, she performed at the world-renowned Carnegie Hall and appeared as a soloist in highlights from the opera Aida at the historic Palace Theatre in Columbus, Ohio. In 1954, she appeared with the Xavier University Choir on NBC's The Dave Garroway Show, sharing her extraordinary talent with audiences across the nation.

At the center of Illa's life was her unwavering love for the Lord. A faithful and devoted member of Saint Dominic Church, she lived her Catholic faith through prayer, service, and ministry. In 1972, she founded the Saint Dominic Choir and faithfully served as its Directress for more than 50 years. Under her leadership, the choir ministered through music in churches throughout the community, regardless of denomination, bringing people together through faith and song.

She was blessed to work alongside dedicated musicians, including Dorothy Colston and Jackie Cason, who served as organists and pianists, and she later shared a wonderful relationship with current Choir Director Vernon Hairston. Through her leadership, dedication, and love of sacred music, she helped shape generations of singers and enriched countless worship services, leaving an enduring legacy within the parish community she so dearly loved.

Throughout her life, Illa often expressed her gratitude to God for the many blessings He bestowed upon her. One of her most cherished sentiments was, "Thank God, He gave me the Saint Dominic Choir." She remained especially grateful for the love, friendship, and support of Norma Gentry and the entire Gentry family, who held a special place in her heart.

In addition to her musical and church accomplishments, Illa dedicated more than 25 years of service to the Ohio Department of Taxation, where she was respected for her professionalism, integrity, and strong work ethic.

Above all else, Illa cherished her family, the precious circle of love that brought purpose and joy to her life. She was their guiding light, offering wisdom when direction was needed, strength when burdens were heavy, and unconditional love through every season. Rooted in faith and sustained by grace, she met life's challenges with quiet courage and unwavering determination, leaving a legacy that will continue to shine in the hearts of those she loved.

Known affectionately as "Hollywood," Illa earned the nickname because of her stylish sunglasses, elegant fashion sense, and vibrant personality. The name was lovingly given to her by Kim Venable at Door Rouge Salon, where Illa faithfully kept her standing appointment every two weeks with Kim, Duchess, and Crystal. Her presence, charm, and unmistakable style brightened every room she entered.

When she was not singing, serving her church, or spending time with family, Illa proudly cheered on her favorite teams. She was a devoted and enthusiastic fan of The Ohio State Buckeyes, the Cleveland Browns, the Cleveland Guardians, and the Cleveland Cavaliers. Win or lose, she remained a loyal supporter who enjoyed celebrating every victory and debating every game.

Illa was preceded in death by her parents, Juanita McClure and Waldron McClure; her beloved grandparents, Walter McClure and Amy McClure; Aunt Geneva; Uncle Gaffney; Aunt Jo Ann Scott; Richard McClure; Zavan McClure; Josetta McClure; Aunt Fern; Kim Scott, Dietrick McClure and Bette Jean Weaver.

She leaves to cherish her memory her devoted son, Kevin Daniels (Monica Daniels); her beloved daughter, Patricia Ewing (Janet); her cherished grandchildren, Joël Bennett and Joy Bennett; her nephew, Derrick McClure; her niece, Connie McClure; her cousins, Ed Scott (Ruby), Cameron Scott, and David McClure; and a host of additional relatives, dear friends, church family, former choir members, and all whose lives were blessed by her faith, music, guidance, and love.

A dedicated and resilient woman, Illa remained strong and faithful until the very end. Her legacy of faith, family, service, music, and love will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

She will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever cherished.

"Well done, good and faithful servant."

Matthew 25:23

All Along, Dear Mother

Don't know when the tears turned into fond memories of yesterday.
Don't know how your light turned into day, but it did.

Can't remember when it was, nor how it was, but all I know is that it was you, Mother, giving way, nothing more and nothing less.

Fly high now amongst the clouds.
Soar to the highest heights as it was intended to be.

Rest now, for that was all that was left for you to do.

Conduct now the choir of angels in the song that you have written.
Verse after verse, melody after melody.

And the fondest memory I now hear is your most blessed phrase:

"For those who sing, pray twice."

Amen.