Mr. Tyrone Daniels

"...has come; but when her baby is born, she forgets the anguish because of her joy that a child is born into the world. Tyrone Daniels was horn on October 26, 1953, to Lula Jean Blalock and Henry Daniels in Milwaukee. Try one was the third child born to this union. Later, when Jean and Brenson McKee joined together in holy matrimony, their blended family grew to a total of 11 children, with Tyrone becoming the third of eight children in the household. Tyrone Daniels lived by the principle, "Even a young man is known by his actions-whether his conduct is pure and upright." His life reflected the belief that true prominence and respect are built upon integrity, character, and everyday behavior. From an early age, Tyrone was energetic, curious, and always on the move. His lively spirit earned him the affectionate nickname "Mousy," lovingly given to T, Uncle T by his nieces, TD, and Tyrone Davis, go figure. At an early age Tyrone was baptized and raised in the faith at Antioch Missionary Baptist Church, where he faithfully served throughout his early adult years under the leadership of Louis Samuel Beauchamp and late Rev. Henry L. Robinson. Later in life, he continued his spiritual journey at Grace Fellowship under the leadership of Rev. Dr. Andrew Calhoun. Tyrone received his formal education through the Milwaukee Public Schools system, attending Henry L. Palmer School and Lincoln High School, where he graduated in 1972. Later attending M.A.T.C and U.W.M. As a dedicated member, Tyrone joined forces with Father James Groppi, the fiery Catholic priest and civil rights activist, in the fight for fair and open housing in Milwaukee. Together, they participated in demonstrations challenging segregation and discrimination, including protests targeting the then all-White Eagles Club. Following Father Groppi's resignation as advisor to the NAACP Youth Council in 1968, many young activists transitioned into a newly formed organization that became widely known as Commandos Project One. Tyrone proudly became part of this movement. Commandos Project One grew into one of Milwaukee's most impactful social service organizations from the 1960s through the early 1980s. The organization pioneered numerous community-based initiatives, including one of the city's first Summer Youth Employment Programs, GED programs, lunch programs, elderly food pantries, handicapped ramp construction programs, voter station initiatives, and community security services affectionately known as the "Commandos Johnny Davis '' Through this work, Tyrone dedicated himself to uplifting the Milwaukee community and creating opportunities for generations to come. Ecclesiastes reminds us that it is a gift from God for a person to rejoice, to do good, and to find pleasure in the fruits of their labor. Irone embodied that scripture throughout his life. He worked hard, carried himself with pride, and believed wholeheartedly that life was meant to be lived fully, faithfully, and with style. Tjrone knew how to make an entrance. As he would often say, a man should always be "sharp." In his younger years, Tyrone was known for his unforgettable fashion bell bottoms, turtlenecks, designer shoes, and his signature afro. When Tyrone stepped out, he truly stepped. He carried himself with confidence, charisma, and a presence that naturally threw people in. He loved spending evenings at neighborhood clubs and lounges where he would dance the night away. Tyrone was never much of a drinker, which made it even more fitting that he danced entirely to the rhythm of his own spirit. His joy, personality, and individuality could be felt everywhere he went. Even as a young man., 1jrone demonstrated a deep commitment to justice and equality. One could say he stepped directly from high school into the civil rights Movement full-time. In the late 1960s, he joined the NAACP Youth Council during a pivotal era in American history when open housing had become a national issue. Outside of his social life, Tyrone found peace and release through many passions and hobbies. Because of the demands and pressures of everyday life, he often turned to books centered on Black empowerment and culture, constantly seeking knowledge, understanding, and growth. He loved classic films and Blaxploitation movies such as Sparkle, Imitation of Life, Truck Turner, and Claudine. He was also an avid fan of Star Wars, westerns, and television favorites like In the Heat of the Night, Tulsa King and Judge Joe Brown. And when it came to sports, especially basketball, Tyrone was a devoted fan. Though he served faithfully as a head deacon, family and friends joked that whenever the Milwaukee Bucks were playing badly, "Deacon went right out the window." Tyrone was also gifted creatively. Drawing and painting became outlets where he could express his thoughts, emotions, and imagination. Among his most cherished works were paintings of himself, Sherri, and Corey titled Bridge of Troubled Water; a self-portrait titled A Tribute to a King; and a heartfelt painting of his nephew Craig. These works stand as lasting reminders of Tyrone's depth, creativity, and versatility. There were many things Tyrone pursued with passion and discipline, including boxing. Though small in frame, Zyrone carried the heart and determination of a true fighter. At the Eagles Club- a place he had once protested to help desegregate - Tyrone made his mark in the ring, even knocking out none other than Sugar Ray Leonard during an exhibition match. He also fought notable opponents such as Bruce Finch and participated in several exhibition bouts throughout his boxing journey. Tyrone was proof that strength is never measured by size alone. Tyrone lived by the scripture, ''Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old, he will not depart from it."' Family was the center of Tyrone's life from the very beginning. He expressed deep love, pride, and devotion to those closest to him and embodied what it meant to be a loving son, devoted father, caring brother, supportive uncle, faithful husband, and even a respectful and honorable former husband. To know Tyrone was to know the importance he placed on family, unity, and unconditional love. Tyrone dearly loved each of his children. As the eldest son, Corey was entrusted early on to carry forward his father's wisdom, strength, and legacy. Many described Corey as Tyrone's "mini me." Corey reflected on his relationship with his father by saying, "Whenever speaking to my dad, it filled me with a kind of exhilaration - a kind of exquisite anguish walking away feeling full and empowered." Tyrone's lessons, guidance, and conversations left a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to hear him speak. His love and protectiveness also shined brightly through his relationship with his only daughter, Courtney. Affectionately nicknamed ''Pepsi" as a child, Courtney could often get away with things that her brothers never could. Tyrone would laugh when she would down his, Pepsi and sweetly respond, "Awwww Pepsi, you drank my soda." Moments like these reflected the tenderness and joy he carried for his daughter. When Tyrone Jr. ("TC") was born, Tyrone displayed an entirely new level of pride and joy. Family members often joked that he showcased TC like a trophy. More important/y, Tjrone taught his children from day one how to love, protect, and stand beside one another. To this day, Corey, Courtney, and TC have never had a physical altercation a testament to the values of love and unity Tyrone instilled within them. Tyrone married his childhood sweetheart, Sherri Reed, later making her Sherri Reed-Daniels. Together; they were affectionately known as the "Black Bonnie and Clyde. Their bond, friendship, and love remained strong and meaningful throughout the years and endured until Tyrone's passing. After their separation, Tyrone was blessed with another son, Tyrone "T-Mike," whom he embraced whole heartedly into the Daniels family. Tyjrone's love, support, and commitment never wavered. He made sure T-Mike always knew that no matter what, he was loved, valued, and forever his son. Later came Garrett, not as the end of Tyrone's legacy, but as another beautiful extension and completion of the family circle he cherished so deeply/ Tyrone married Tina and completed the circle of family. While Tyrone's children were his pride and joy, his grandchildren became his true superpower. No matter the circumstance snowstorms, babysitting, church outings, or simple quality time Tyrone always made himself available for them. He often called his grand children hoping they would not answer, simply so he could leave loving messages on their voicemail. ln conversations with Corey, Tyrone would sometimes say he wished he could have done more for his children. Corey lovingly reassured him, "Dad, you've done more than enough.'' Yet when it came to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Tyrone found renewed purpose and joy, and they found the same in him

Mr. Tyrone Daniels

October 26, 1953 - May 8, 2026