Lester Francis McDaniel's Obituary
Lester Francis McDaniel, Jr., 85, a man whose life was stitched together with music, craftsmanship, and deep love for family, passed away peacefully on November 25, 2025.
From the moment he first picked up a guitar, music became the heartbeat of his life. A completely self-taught musician, he didn’t just play—he lived through every chord. Over the years, he built an extraordinary collection of more than thirty guitars, each one holding a story, a memory, or a melody he couldn’t let go of.
One of his greatest joys was passing that love of music on to his grandson, Zach. The hours they spent together—hands on strings, learning, laughing, creating—became some of his most cherished moments. Knowing that his passion would continue through the next generation meant everything to him.
He also held a deep affection for West Virginia, a place that felt like home in the truest sense. With his own hands and unwavering determination, he built two cabins and a house there, crafting spaces filled with warmth, welcome, and the quiet beauty of the mountains he adored.
Lester is survived by his three children; Rhonda Scott (Roy), Lester “Trey” F. McDaniel III (Sheryl) and Derek T. McDaniel (Crystal); four grandchildren; Zach Scott (Brianna Pullen), Desiree Weaver, J.B. McDaniel (Katie) and Alexis McDaniel; great grandchildren, Maddie Weaver, Marshall McDaniel, Myles McDaniel and one on the way; and niece, Desiree Weaver (Darrel Andes).
Lester was preceded in death his wife, Shirley Grogg McDaniel; his parents, Lester Francis McDaniel, Sr. and Rebecca Carter McDaniel; siblings, Barbara Carrico and Charles McDaniel; and grandson, Troy McDaniel.
His legacy lives on in the music he shared, the homes he built, and the people he taught, inspired, and loved.
Visitation will be held Tuesday, December 2, 2025, from 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. at Found and Sons Funeral Chapel, 850 Sperryville Pike, Culpeper, VA.
A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at 1 p.m. at Found and Sons Funeral Chapel, 850 Sperryville Pike, Culpeper, VA. For those unable to attend, the family invites you to watch via livestream at https://view.oneroomstreaming.com/index.php?data=MTc2NDE3MzA3NjM5MDQ1NCZvbmVyb29tLWFkbWluJmNvcHlfbGluaw==
Interment will follow at Amissville Baptist Church Cemetery, Viewtown Rd, Amissville, VA.
An online guestbook and tribute wall are available https://www.foundandsons.com
Found and Sons Funeral of Culpeper is serving the family.
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