Norma Marie McDaniel

Norma Marie McDaniel, 83, of St. Leonard passed away on May 16, 2026.

Born on January 3, 1943, in Washington, DC, Norma was the daughter of the late Earl Virgil Sisk and Helen Agnes Lekas. Norma was raised in Boulevard Heights, Maryland and later spent many years in Suitland and Bowie before moving to Calvert County in 1997.

With limited education and resources, Norma spent her early years working multiple jobs to support herself and care for her daughter, somehow always managing to provide just enough. She was a dependable and reliable worker who cared about her work and committed herself to learning as much as possible.

Her persistence and determination led to a career in the wholesale optical business, spanning more than 50 years working for Bausch & Lomb, Capitol Optical, and Nassau Lens, among others. Her depth of knowledge made her a go-to resource for opticians and manufacturer representatives in the Washington, DC area. Later in retirement, she worked in the hospitality industry where she again gained the respect of her coworkers and made many friends. This position even gave her the opportunity to meet the band members of Alabama.

Norma married Robert “Sonny” McDaniel in 1971 and cared devotedly for him through his illness until his passing in 2015. She also cared greatly for her beloved dachshunds and cats, volunteering with Friends of Felines in her later years. Norma enjoyed music, movies, and cooking, priding herself on developing new recipes as she got older and had more time for her interests.

Life was not always easy for Norma, but she faced it with resilience, humor, and an ability to connect with people from all walks of life. Norma filled the world with her wonderful laughter and great sense of humor. She especially enjoyed making others laugh and was never afraid to add a little mischief or irreverence to the conversation. Norma had a natural ability to brighten any room and entertain the crowd. She spent her life working to provide for and care for her family and those who were important to her, sometimes at her own expense. She will be remembered for her caring and generous nature toward everyone she met. Norma met people where they were, without judgment and with only a desire to help.

Norma is survived by her daughter Barbara (Dan) Howdyshell of Broomes Island, MD; her grandchildren David (Josie) Howdyshell of Huntingtown, Jenna (Matt) Catania of Mechanicsburg, PA and Rachel Howdyshell of Columbia, SC; four great grandchildren; her cousins; and many friends.

Norma was preceded in death by her husband, parents, sister Rita Jane Tompkins, and stepdaughter Renee McDaniel.

The family would like to express their gratitude to her friends and caregivers for their assistance and care in her final years as she battled dementia. She deeply appreciated your visits, calls, and the treats you would bring to her. We would also like to thank Hospice of the Chesapeake for their compassionate care in her final days.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Norma’s memory to Hospice of the Chesapeake, 90 Ritchie Highway, Pasadena, MD 21122 or your favorite animal rescue charity.

Family and friends are invited to a visitation on Tuesday, May 26, 1:00 – 2:30 pm immediately followed by a memorial service.

Arrangements provided by Lee Funeral Home Calvert, Owings, Maryland.