Mildred R. McDaniel
September 23, 1960 – February 4, 2025
Mildred Roberta McDaniel was born on September 23, 1960, in Gholson, Mississippi, to Elisha McDaniel Jr. and Elsie Mae Cotton. From the very beginning, she carried a spirit of creativity, passion, and an unrelenting love for her family, her city, and the people around her. Her faith in God was the foundation of her life, and she lived with a deep love and devotion to Him, guiding her actions and relationships with grace and compassion. Mildred always believed that nothing is stronger than prayer—especially a mother’s prayer. Her prayers were a constant source of strength, not only for her family but for all who knew her. She leaves behind a legacy that will be cherished for years to come.
Mildred moved to Omaha, where she made an indelible mark on the community. A proud Benson Bunny, she graduated from Benson High School in 1978, carrying with her a lifelong love for her classmates and the friendships she made there. She was the heart of her class, organizing reunions and ensuring that their bond remained strong throughout the years.
She was crowned Miss Teen Nebraska, reflecting her beauty, poise, and dedication to her state. Throughout her life, she was a passionate advocate for Omaha’s arts and culture, uplifting local talent and preserving the city’s history.
As a devoted historian—not just for her own family tree but for the city she loved and called home—Mildred dedicated herself to preserving Omaha’s rich history. She always ensured that its stories, talent, and culture were never forgotten. Through her work, she uplifted countless artists, writers, and visionaries, making sure Omaha’s brilliance was recognized and celebrated. Her love for storytelling, music, and her community will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. She was a beacon of wisdom, creativity, and pride, always eager to share her gifts with the world.
A gifted storyteller, she had an extraordinary way with words. All she needed was a pen and paper, and the rest was truly magic. She had a deep love for writing—whether it was music, poetry, or capturing the stories of those around her.
Together with her late husband, Lonzo Franklin Sr, they were a musical force like no other. She crafted the lyrics, played the keys, and created melodies that blended seamlessly with his powerful vocals, producing songs that resonated deeply. Their bond in music was as strong as their love, and together, they left behind a timeless soundtrack of their journey.
Mildred began her career at Creighton University before moving to Florida, where she took on a position at Stetson University. She dedicated nearly 20 years to Stetson, working across various campuses and holding several key positions. It was here that she reached the pinnacle of her career as the Assistant Director of Graduate and Professional Programs. To her colleagues, she left a lasting impression, admired for her leadership, commitment, and consistent support. While she was a devoted mother to her two children, her love and care extended far beyond her immediate family. At Stetson, she not only guided students academically but also provided a sense of belonging, becoming a true home away from home. She was more than just a mentor or advisor—she was a motherly figure to all who knew her.
Mildred’s passion for honoring legacies and celebrating greatness led her to form a close relationship with the Muhammad Ali family. She became Vice President of the Board of Directors for The Muhammad Ali Legacy Continues Foundation, where she played a key role in advancing the foundation’s mission of uplifting communities and continuing the legendary boxer’s impact on the world. While she was proud to help preserve his legacy, her greatest devotion was to the history and stories of her own family.
A keeper of stories and a guardian of memories, Mildred made it her mission to pass down the history of the Cotton and McDaniel families. She shared family stories and photos, making sure we knew where we came from and the strength that ran through our bloodline. As a sister, there were no limits to what she would do to protect her own, always standing by her family with deep loyalty. As an aunt, she treated her nieces and nephews as if they were her own, showering them with love and care. As a friend, she was the epitome of reliability—always showing up, offering a listening ear, a comforting presence, and steady support. And as a mother, she was everything anyone could ever ask for—a guiding light, a source of endless love, and the heart of her family. Her love was unconditional, her arms always open, and her heart always ready to give. She made every moment feel special, teaching the true meaning of selfless love and devotion.
She entered eternal rest on February 4, 2025, at the age of 64. She was tenderly reunited with her parents, Elisha McDaniel Jr. and Elsie Mae Cotton; her sisters, Ruth McDaniel-Williams-Franklin and Jean Dalton; her brother, James McDaniel; and her loving husband, Lonzo Franklin Sr.
Left to cherish her memory are her sisters, Elisha (Nan) Keith-McDaniel and LaRhonda McDaniel; her brother, Mark McDaniel; her children, Kari McDaniel and Kamillah Franklin; a host of nieces and nephews; along with a community that was deeply touched by her passion, love, and dedication.
Mildred McDaniel…Midge…Mom, we love you. Thank you for everything. You will be missed.
FUNERAL SERVICE: Friday, February 14, 2025, 12:00noon at West Center Chapel, 7805 West Center Road, Omaha, 68124
INTERMENT: Forest Lawn Memorial Park, 7909 Mormon Bridge Road, Omaha, 68152
Memorials will be directed by the family.
To view a live Broadcast of the Service, please visit www.heafeyheafey.com and click on the “Live Cast” button at the top of the home page.
Heafey-Hoffmann-Dworak-Cutler, West Center Chapel, 7805 West Center Road, Omaha, Ne 68124. (402)-391-3900. www.heafeyheafey.com
15 Comments
McDaniel Family: You have lost another amazing human in your family and in this world. I am so sorry for your loss. I have known Midge over 40 years. She was a water fall in the middle of a desert. Such an amazing, amazing person. I am grateful that she is at rest. May our GOD give you peace in your loss.
R.I.P. Midge 🙏🏽❤️
Sending prayers and condolences to Nan, Mark and Rhonda. My neighbor from 47th Ave. payout all will always be part of my extended family. Love Ricky
So sad to hear of her passing. My you all be comforted by the memories.
From our family to yours, we are so sorry for your loss, Just know that our prayers are with you.
Toni , Teddy, & Shonda Parks
Hi to the McDaniel family / old friends and old neighbors. This is Paul Jensen, I would like to extend my condolences and prayers to you and your loved ones. Thank you for sharing this wonderful story of Midge and her life. Midge is the name I’ know best, When Growing up next door to you guys when we were kids that was what I called her. I left for the Marines in December of 1976. I wasn’t back home much after that. So hearing about your sister Midge and the awesome things that she did in her lifetime was not surprising to me. she was always outgoing, full of energy and a very good friend to have when I was growing up. Your parents were always there to help me. They were great people to and I’m sure they would be very proud of Midge and her accomplishments. I know that I am and I’m proud to have called her my friend.
It’s not how long we live, it’s how long our memories live on… Love You Midge, Forever My friend!
Hi Paul. Yes Midge was the best.
To the family: So sorry for your loss, and I pray for peace and comfort to you all during this difficult time. I truly feel her absence from this earth. She is such a sweet, loving soul. I’m so grateful God chose to let me be one of her many her friends!
Mildred, Midge was my favorite cousin. While she was in Florida we spoke at least twice a week. She had a beautiful spirit. FAMILY- May GOD give you strength and comfort during this time. I gonna miss her. RIH cousin.!
To the family of Midge: My condolences to you and prayers. She’s at peace know that and will be missed by many.
To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord. What an awesome place! May Midge rest peacefully with our Lord. My deepest condolences to the family and to all who loved her. She will be greatly missed. The Benson HS class of 1978 reunions will never be the same but her awesome Bunny spirit will live on. Rest easy my friend.
To the McDaniel family sending sincere condolences to this family God is our strength at a time like this we have to hold on to his hands and pray, we love you and are praying for you🙏🏾🙌🙏🏾
To the family of Midge,
I am so sorry to hear about the passing of Midge. I just heard the news yesterday. Midge was such a beautiful person inside and out. She believed in being kind to everyone. I will always remember with fondness our years at Benson High School and Midge was one of the people who brought joy to our class. I’m praying that God will hold your family up at this very difficult time, and that all who knew Midge will meditate on the good times we shared.
Sending my love & Prayers to the McDaniel family. Midge may be gone physically, but she will never be forgotten. She will always be with us in our hearts. RIP Midge. Until we meet again.
Valerie Sewell. 2/14/2025
I was a classmate of Midge’s at Benson High. I remember her effervescence and joy. She was a connecter-she brought our class together across cliques and interests and races. I did not know her well, but have appreciated the ways she kept the class of 1978 connected through the years. May her memory be a blessing. May her family and friends be comforted in grief and encouraged by Midge’s sure faith, to be sure in faith as well.
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