Danielle “Sam” McCranie, who battled Multiple Sclerosis with extraordinary courage, passed away on Monday, August 5, 2024. Born on September 19, 1953, in Daytona Beach, FL, to Muriel A. and Charles J. Smith II, Sam spent most of her life on Amelia Island.
Sam is survived by her devoted husband of 37 years, Daniel I. McCranie; her son Richard H. Hydrick III (Mallory); and her cherished grandchildren Harper and Hudson, who lovingly called her Gigi. She is also survived by her sister Michelle R. Smith (Craig Lewis), brother Charles J. Smith III (Patricia). Additionally, she is survived by her stepchildren Daniel I. McCranie, Jr. (Elizabeth) and Courtney M. Moon (Mark).
Prior to her diagnosis, Sam was an avid runner and completed several Gate River Runs. When running became impossible, she discovered a new passion in painting. She enjoyed exploring many subjects through her paintings, including land and seascapes, animals, still life, and botanicals. She was honored to have her work on display in local galleries.
Above all else, Sam loved her family. No matter how she was feeling, Sam drew her family together for birthdays, holidays, and periodic Sunday dinners. She and Dan always had room for everyone and found great joy in the presence of family.
She also surrounded herself with many close friends and cherished their support and decades-long relationships.
Sam's legacy will be cherished by all who knew her. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. She will be remembered and celebrated for her radiant smile, unconditional love, and boundless joy in the company of her family.
A visitation will be held on Friday, August 9, at Oxley-Heard Funeral Home starting at 12:30 pm, with a Chapel service with Deacon Art Treadwell at 1:30 pm, followed by a graveside service at Bosque Bello Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation.