“Carol was just a wonderful person who had such a positive impact on thousands of students and their families. She had an infectious smile, and her genuine approach and her unrelenting efforts to inspire others are just a few of the things that made her such an incredible educator and role model. While I know she will be missed, I also know her impact and memory will live on.”
—Darryl Brown, president, London school board
(Posted July 12, 2017)
By Kristy Zurbrick, Madison Editor
Carol Daniels could do more than light up a room. With her boundless enthusiasm, she could energize whole auditoriums and gymnasiums.
On July 17-18, hundreds will pay their respects to the revered educator who served London City Schools for over 40 years, the last 30 as principal at London Elementary. Daniels, 62, passed away on July 9 following a battle with cancer. Calling hours and funeral services will take place at the high school.
“Carol worked with dozens of administrators, hundreds of staff members, and served as a role model to thousands of students, many of whom still live in London,” said Dr. Lou Kramer, district superintendent. “Carol was recognized as a Jennings Scholar in 1987, but it was her tireless advocacy for the kids of London (that) set her apart.”
As both a parent of students in the district and as a school board member, Marvin Homan knows well the positive impact Daniels made.
“It was about more than grades with Carol. She always cared about the kids’ wellbeing, keeping them involved and going down the right path. That was probably one of her strongest characteristics,” Homan said.
He also appreciated her input on school board matters. When he became a board member six years ago, the district was going through a difficult time financially. Tough decisions were being made.
“I remember Carol coming up to me during my first or second meeting and saying, ‘This is all for the better. We’re going to get through this,’ ” Homan said. “Through good things and bad, she was always there to lend an ear and be supportive.”
Daniels had a gift when it came to education and relating to others, said first-grade teacher Annette Rinesmith, who worked with Daniels for the past 32 years.
“She could always pull things together. She was very calm, educated, respectful and honest,” Rinesmith said. “She had it together.”
In the days after Daniels’ death, Rinesmith said she found herself driving past the school often.
“Just to see the school flag flying at half-mast said it all. It’s respectful, which she deserves,” she said.
About the district opening up the high school for the funeral, Rinesmith added, “I sent an email to the superintendent, thanking him for letting her come home. There’s no place she’d rather be than at school.”
Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. July 17 in the London High School gym. Funeral services will take place at 10 a.m. July 18, also in the high school gym. Pastor Jeff Griffith will officiate.
Memorial contributions may be made to London City Schools, 380 Elm St., London, OH 43140, or London Public Library, 20 E. First St., London, OH 43140. If making a donation to London City Schools, note “In Memory of Carol Daniels” in the memo line so that funds can be earmarked to support the district’s academic boosters.
