Daniel's Story

Daniel Cornelius White was a force—bold, funny, sensitive, and unforgettable. Born on November 21, 1995, he lived his life out loud, full of energy, love, and curiosity. From a young age, Daniel was fiercely independent, always marching to the beat of his own drum. But beneath that spirited exterior was someone deeply sensitive and full of heart.

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He was a true “momma’s boy,” always protective of his mother, Renee Zavala, and never afraid to show his affection. At the same time, Daniel deeply admired his father, Ed White, often referring to him as his hero. That blend of fierce loyalty and tender devotion defined so much of who Daniel was.

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As the youngest of four siblings, Daniel knew how to make himself known. Erika, Danica, and Erik will tell you—he was easy to argue with because he never backed down. But somehow, as the baby of the family, he had a magical way of escaping the consequences. His siblings laugh about it now, remembering that signature Daniel charm that seemed to get him out of anything.

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Daniel had an uncanny ability to connect with people. Making new friends came naturally to him—he was open, funny, and completely himself, no matter who was watching. People gravitated toward him in a way his siblings say they never quite mastered. He lit up every room he walked into, and he made everyone feel like they belonged.

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A true gearhead, Daniel loved working on cars, scooters, and just about anything he could build or tinker with. He was often found in the garage with his dad, lending a hand with car repairs or putting the finishing touches on his moped. He had a gift with his hands and a mind that was always turning—always figuring out how things worked and how to make them better. 

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Above all else, Daniel was a proud and devoted father to his two beautiful children, Zylan and Kuhlani. They were his everything—his greatest joy, his deepest love, and the legacy he was most proud of. Even from a young age, Daniel spoke about wanting to be a dad and have a family of his own. And when he was with his children, he truly shined—his whole being lit up with love and purpose.

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Daniel is survived by his parents, Ed White and Renee Zavala; his siblings, Erika White, Danica White, and Erik White; his grandparents, Marvin and Virginia White; and his cherished children, Zylan and Kuhlani. He also leaves behind his nieces and nephews: Julian White, Lux Mills, Lylah White, Jerry Millard III, Lilith Millard, and Jaxen Millard—each of whom he loved deeply.

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Daniel was a son, a brother, a father, a grandson, an uncle, and a friend. But most of all, he was Daniel—a once-in-a-lifetime kind of person whose laughter, love, and wild spirit will be missed more than words can express.