Millie Violet Currie-McDaniel, a devoted wife, beloved mother and grandmother, cherished
sister, and trailblazer in public service, passed away peacefully on June 10, 2025, at the age of
89, surrounded by family and love. Millie was born on March 15, 1936, in Soso, Mississippi,
to the late Millie Dicky Huddleston and James Lynch Currie. Named after her mother, she was affectionately called "Millie-V" by close
friends and family to distinguish the two. She was the oldest daughter of seven siblings and
quickly embraced a role that would define her life: the thoughtful, steadfast "mother hen" to her
brothers and sisters.

Millie graduated from T.J. Harris High School in 1953 and went on to attend Hampton Institute
(now Hampton University) in Virginia. There, she earned her bachelor's degree in sociology in
1957. At Hampton, Millie was admired for her elegance, grace, and intelligence. She was
named Miss Junior Hampton in 1956, Miss Hampton in 1957, and Miss Olympic Sweetheart the
same year—titles that reflected the poise and warmth that defined her.

It was at Hampton in 1954 where she met her future husband, Avon Leroy McDaniel Sr., who
had transferred from Virginia State. Introduced by a friend while she was working at the campus
library, Millie and Avon began a courtship filled with shared stories, laughter, and lifelong
memories. After Avon returned from the army, they were married on November 26, 1959, in an
intimate ceremony at the home of her aunt and uncle, Curtis and Bernever Styles.

Millie began her professional life in Flint, Michigan, working at the YMCA in 1957. Later, she
joined the Detroit Police Department's Women's Division as a plainclothes detective. In an era
when few Black women served in law enforcement, Millie distinguished herself through her
courage and skill. She was recognized as an outstanding marksman and received accolades for
her undercover work, including the arrest of a known drug offender.
Her career in public service continued at Detroit Recorder's Court, where she rose to become
supervisor of the probation department. After decades of dedicated service, she retired from the
State of Michigan and relocated to Texas with her husband to enjoy their later years together.

Millie was a devoted mother to two children. Her son, Avon "Chip" Leroy McDaniel Jr., followed
in her footsteps and devoted 37 years of service as a Houston police officer. His longtime
partner, Michelle Phelps, has been a loving presence in the family. Her daughter, Rhonda
Patrice Swann, is a former pharmacist and current educator, married to William Swann—whom
Millie affectionately referred to as her "handsome son-in-law."
Millie was also the adored "Nana" to her three grandchildren who brought her endless joy.
Regan Cierra Swann, William "Will" Francis Swann Jr., and Rylyn Kara Swann each held a
special place in her heart. She never missed a chance to cheer them on, spoil them a little, and
offer her steady wisdom.

Millie was preceded in death by her siblings James "Sonny" Lynch Currie III, Marva Brenda
Ralston, Isaac "Bill" Claxton Currie, and Carl Eric Currie. She is survived by her sisters Myrtle
Lenora Jones and Monica LaNeese Johnson, and by many nieces, nephews, and extended
family members who were blessed by her guidance and unconditional support.
A gifted pianist, Millie often filled her childhood home with music and played for her church
community. In her younger adult years, she was known as shy and bashful, often described as a
"country girl from Mississippi". In time, she blossomed into a confident and generous host,
especially in her later years. Her home became the gathering place for holiday get-togethers,
card games, laughter, and plenty of good food. She had a gift for making people feel welcome
and cared for. Her door was always open to those in need.
Her kindness extended far beyond her family. In retirement, she volunteered at West Houston
Hospital, where she especially loved crocheting baby caps for newborns. Her hands were
always busy with acts of service, and her heart always open to others.

Millie McDaniel's legacy is one of grace, strength, compassion, and quiet excellence. She lived
a full and meaningful life, defined by love for her family, her work, her faith, and her community.
She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A Letter From Heaven

I am writing this from heaven,
Where I dwell with God above,
Where there's no more tears or sadness,
There is just eternal love.

The day I had to leave you,
When my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me,
And said, "I welcome you."

Please do not be unhappy,
Just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you,
Every morning, noon, and night.

But one thing is for certain,
Though my life on earth is over,
I am closer to you now,
Than I ever was before.

When you are walking down the street,
And you've got me on your mind,
I'm walking in your footsteps,
Only half a step behind.

And when you feel that gentle breeze,
Or the wind upon your face,
That's me giving you a great big hug,
Or just a soft embrace.
~Unknown

With respect to Millie Currie McDaniel's wishes, there will be no funeral services and no flowers are requested.

A private prayer with family is what she has requested.

Mail all cards to the funeral home at:

Allen Dave Funeral Homes and Crematorium

2103 Cypress Landing Rd.

Houston, Texas 77090

Phone (713) 480-2966

Fax (713) 634-2707