Christopher Joe Daniels (Chris) was born in Wayne County, living in a small town of Calypso. Around the age of eight, Chris and his family moved to Selma, North Carolina, where he attended SSS High School and Johnston Community College.

Chris followed in his father’s footsteps by volunteering with his local fire department. Chris joined Pine Level Volunteer Fire Department as a volunteer in 2000. He began obtaining his certifications through Johnston Community College in firefighter, driver operator, rescue, and EMT.

In September 2003, Chris started his career with Smithfield Fire Department as a paid firefighter. He rose through the ranks to become an engineer with Smithfield and also served as interim captain. Chris shared his passion of being a firefighter by being an instructor at Johnston Community College. Chris also worked part-time with Pine Level and with Thanksgiving Fire Department and volunteered with Selma Fire Department as an assistant chief. He was known as “the get ′er done guy.” Anything around the fire house that needed to be done, he would lead the way.

While not volunteering his time at local fire departments, Chris enjoyed spending time with family, playing golf, and doing yard work. He served the Lord with joy in his heart. He and his wife (Kristie) taught a Sunday school class at Branch Chapel Free Will Baptist Church and assisted with church camp. Chris was a loving husband and father. He and Kristie were married Oct. 28, 2000, 15 years, and Maegan was his only daughter.

Chris died at the early age of 40 while on duty at Pine Level Volunteer Fire Department. He was a hardworking man but made time for the things that were important. He was all around an outstanding person who showed God’s love to everyone. Although he has passed, he will never be forgotten. Chris left a lasting impression on everyone he met and continues to do so through his memorial.