Dora G. Daniel

May 1948 – September 2021

Dora G. Daniel, age 73, passed away on September 18, 2021 with her daughters by her side.

Dora was born in Turlock, CA on May 13, 1948 to William and Seemus (Lowe) Watson. She was employed with Youngdales for over 27 years and retired from Stanislaus State in 2008.

Those closest to her knew her as Geraldine, but we knew her as Mom/Mama and Nana.

She was loved and respected by all that came to know her. She had such a gentle soul, but if you messed with her family, there was nothing gentle about her.

She enjoyed her long talks with her youngest daughter Rochelle, as they would carry on forever. Rochelle would call on her for anything and mom would give 100% of her attention. They were extremely close. Mom’s face always lit up with the biggest smile as soon as Rochelle walked through the door. Rochelle was the ultimate mama’s girl.

Her oldest daughter Renee and her were close like sisters and carried on like sisters do. They always enjoyed their dinner adventures to Bag o’ Crab. Dora turned to Renee for everything. There wasn’t a decision Dora made without getting Renee’s approval. Renee was extremely protective over her mom, and those who didn’t treat her with the best care would hear about it from Renee.

Dora was very proud of her girls and made sure everyone knew it.

She loved to dance. Many times, you could catch her and her oldest grandson Derek in the middle of the driveway or the middle of the yard dancing. They carried a unique bond. It was always special to catch that moment of them together.

Her girls, grandkids and great grandkids were her world. Being a close family was important and meant everything to her. Dora loved having family get-togethers and was always thinking ahead to when the next one should be.

Dora was the life of the party and had everyone in tears laughing so hard, it was like the “Live Dora comedy show”, she would even laugh at herself. Once you got Dora and her girls in one room, everyone would be in tears laughing. We are going to miss these moments the most.

Every event we were together there was great music, and competitive Rummy games. Mom would always win somehow. We will honor her by always having a chair open during these games.

Her granddaughter Lexi always counted down the days until she got to see her nana again. Lexi would always know the moment we turned the corner to nana’s; we were getting close. Lexi adored her nana and her nana adored her.

Dora also loved to watch movies. One of her favorites was Tammy and he Bachelor. She loved it so much she named her dog Tammy after the movie/song. Her granddaughter Christina’s fondest memory is going to nana’s to watch Now and Then.

She will be deeply missed and never forgotten. Her family will continue with her dreams of having her family kept tight as they always have.

Dora is survived by her two daughters, Renee Lynn Merrifield (Randy) and Rochelle Renee Sherman (Jacob); 6 grandchildren, Derek Russell Sly (Denise), Christina Nicole Merrifield (Edward), Lexi Hope Sherman, Blake Hunter Sherman, Faith Sashi Hayes and Nicholas William Sherman; three great-grandchildren, Rylen Derek Sly, Siena Renee Sly, and Bradley Joseph Sly; and her brother Alvin Watson.

Viewing will be held from 4pm – 6pm on Friday, October 1, 2021 at Allen Mortuary. Celebration of life will be held at 10am on Saturday, October 2, 2021, also at Allen Mortuary.

Condolences(6)

Rochelle Sherman says
September 25, 2021 at 11:54 am

I miss you so much mom! There are so many memories of us. We have been rough a-lot together. You were always there for me. I’ll forever be honored to have been your daughter. I can’t wait for the day we are together again. Until then, I’ll try my hardest to stay strong as I promised, and I promise you I’ll keep our family together.

Lexi wanted me to share just how much she loved you. She gos on to explain you were the greatest nana in the world, and you were. When the lollipop song comes on she thinks of you. With teary eyes, Blake said nana already knows what I’m feeling. He’s right , you do. ! You are so loved mama, always have been, and ALWAYS will be. Your love will be lifting us higher. ❤️ I love you forever.
Lisa says
September 22, 2021 at 10:09 pm

Renee, Your mom was always nice & fun to be around! She was a big part of my childhood & so were you ! So many happy memories. I’m so sorry she has passed away & I know you’re going to miss her dearly. I love you
Tammy Bashor says
September 22, 2021 at 8:10 pm

Renee and Rochelle you are loved. I’m so sorry for your loss.. My heart is broken at the thought of your pain and grieving. No other love like it Mommas are special beyond measure. They are the ones give us life, nurture us, spank us, pray for us, self sacrifice for us, cry with us, laugh with us, encourage us….all so we grow up to be the best we can be. Then they become our best friends ❤ Your momma was special and so beautiful. I didn’t see her much in my adult years, but I was blessed to know that she loved me. Our moms were besties and .shared alot when I was little..( man, we should write a book with all the hilarious adventures they shared, lol) I remember her caring for me..I remember her smile and her laugh. I will treasure these memories always.. I am praying for strength and peace for all that are grieving. “Be strong” is what we all need to be. Your momma is dancing in the heavens, no more pain, no more sorrow. My sincerest of sympathies and love. (((( BIGHUGS )))) RIP Geraldine
Renee says
September 22, 2021 at 7:47 pm

Hi John, thank you so much, that means a lot. My mom adored you guys. We had the best neighborhood friends/”family”
Derek Sly says
September 22, 2021 at 7:37 pm

For the 36 years I knew my Grandmother there was NEVER a dull moment. Although I was her eldest grandchild she called me “babe”. Her laugh was contagious, her love was pure, and she was always overwhelmed with joy to see me. I can hear her now. I miss my Nana. She is dancing with the Angels. Some day our souls will be reconnected.
John Barnes says
September 22, 2021 at 5:55 pm

Renee,
I’m so sorry for your loss. You and your mother were a big part of our family growing up on the side of the hill on Stearns Road. We are all thinking of you during these difficult times.

Dora G. Daniel May 13, 1948 - September 18, 2021

Condolences(6)

Rochelle Sherman says

Lisa says

Tammy Bashor says

Renee says

Derek Sly says

John Barnes says

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