Ricky Boyd McDaniel, 63, of Fork passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by his family in the early morning of August 31, 2019. He was born in Mullins, on March 18, 1956 to the late Dorothy Woodle McDaniel and Hughie McDaniel, Jr.

Ricky loved his family and his home beyond all else and was never far from either. He could often be found working on his beloved old cars, digging in the garden, tinkering in his workshop and fixing anything that was broken, cooking for the family (chicken bog was his specialty), camping, fishing, and spoiling his dogs. Please also keep his dogs in your thoughts and prayers, as no one will be able to love them quite as well as he.

Ricky was known as a gentle giant, physically towering over most people yet quiet in nature. While generally a man of few words, when he spoke, we listened. Old newspaper articles praise his skills on the football field, noting his honor as a class 2A Lineman of the Year for Lake View High School and winning multiple scholarships to play football in college. His love of football continued throughout his life, as a dedicated Gamecock fan and an even more dedicated hater of the Tigers. This was always a great debate between him and his big brother Ronny, and we all find some peace and humor in the hope that the McDaniel boys can pick this argument up again in heaven.

Ricky retired from Home and Industrial several years ago, and has enjoyed taking care of his wife and daughters (and dogs) full time. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge and of Hopewell United Methodist Church, and found great pride in both.

He is survived by his loving wife of 42 years, Minerva Avant McDaniel, two daughters, Olivia McDaniel Lara (Joe) and Delta Maxine McDaniel of Fork as well as many cousins, nieces, nephews and countless life-long friends. He was preceded in death by his big brother, Ronny McDaniel.

Visitation will be held from 5 until 8 PM on Sunday, September 1, 2019 at Meares Funeral Home in Mullins. A graveside service will be held on Monday September 2, 2019 at 11:00 AM at Riverside Cemetery in Dillon, SC.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorials be made in Ricky's memory to Hopewell United Methodist Church in Fork, SC in care of Terry Thompson at 2021 Buck Swamp Rd. Fork, SC 29543.

An online guestbook is available at www.mearesfh.com