Donald William Daly

Donald William Daly, age 89 of Phoenixville PA, passed away peacefully on January 18, 2025, surrounded by his family. Born on August 17, 1935, raised in Philadelphia, Don was the son of the late (Joseph Daly), and Josephine Gallagher. He often insisted we mention he was born the same year as Elvis Presley. Don was a devoted husband to Carroll Daly (Rush) and the proud father of Brian, Kevin (Jaclyn), Matthew (Chrystine) and Peter (Anne). He was the beloved "Poppy" to his grandchildren: Kayla, Dylan, Logan, Ciara, Mason, Jaiden, Vaughn and Cami. Don was the dear brother of the late Elizabeth (Betty) Vernot and Joseph. Don lived a very full and rewarding life. He was raised in the 2nd floor apartment of a modest row home in Southwest Philadelphia with his mother and sister. After graduating from West Catholic High School, Don joined the Army in 1957 and served in Hawaii for 2 years as an armored carrier driver. He followed that up by joining the Merchant Marines, traveling through the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico. Like most of the Philadelphia youth, Don ventured to the Jersey Shore every summer in the 1960s. These trips expanded his circle of friends, and soon led to him meeting his soulmate, Carroll, at a dance place called Drexelbook in Drexel Hill. Don was a great dancer and they dated for two years and were married on October 30th, 1971. Carroll was by his side until the end. His work ethic carried him through two careers - 22 years as a proud Philadelphia Police officer and 20+ more as a fraud investigator for national banks. His work led to many great adventures and stories. His life was full of personal encounters with famous folks such as Mother Teresa, Muhammed Ali, Pete Rose, Don Ho and Chubby Checkers to name a few. He interacted with every Philly mayor from Frank Rizzo through Michael Nutter. The FBI rewarded him with a service reward in 2002 for his contributions to the September 11th investigations. He enjoyed reading, politics and it is believed he never lost a trivia game. Don was described as "Kind, Sweet, Funny, and Caring" by his many friends and colleagues. Above all, Don's priority was being there for his family. He always ensured we had summer vacations in Sea Isle City and the Poconos throughout our childhood. In the 80s, he was known for walking the beach with his large VHS camera and filming his family. He had stories that could inspire a Hollywood movie. An avid reader of crime and spy novels, Don knew where Hoffa was buried long before The Irishman movie came out. He loved telling family and friends these stories and they will live with his family forever. In lieu of flowers, any Memorial contributions may be made to Ann's Heart in his name at annsheart.org Viewing with family and friends is Saturday Morning 9-11am with a Funeral Mass to follow at 11:00 at St. Ann's Chapel 604 Main Street, Phoenixville, PA, 19460. Details for the luncheon will be provided at the Mass. Arrangements are being handled by the Campbell - Ennis - Klotzbach Funeral Home, Inc. Condolences may be offered online at www.PhoenixvilleFuneralHome.com.

Donald William Daly

August 17, 1935 - January 18, 2025