Mr. Daniel Will Eugene Thomas

Daniel Will Eugene Thomas was born January 27, 1957, in Detroit, Michigan, to Richard Oscar Thomas and Annette Armstrong. Throughout his life, he embraced the rich heritage of his Creole roots from New Orleans, Louisiana. Daniel confessed his love of God at an early age and carried God with him to the very end. He departed from this earth and transcended to his celestial home on Sunday, August 3, 2025, at 1:14 a.m. Daniel attended Northwestern High School in Detroit, Michigan. Later, he worked at Chrysler Corporation, where he found joy in helping his mother support the family. Daniel was a man of many passions, but dance was his first love, especially Detroit Ballroom. Considered one of the best, he learned from his mother and carried that elegance into every aspect of his life. Fashion was another of his great joys. A John Robert Powers Modeling School graduate at 18, Daniel later attended Virginia Farrell Beauty School – initially just to meet girls, but this opportunity continued to ignite his creative flair. He sketched hundreds of designs and, in 2021, brought his vision to life by opening The Mercedes Club Fashion for Men in Lansing, Michigan. His mission was simple but powerful: To ensure everyone looked sharp enough to make a lasting first impression. His generosity was legendary – often gifting people with merchandise “just because!” Daniel’s life was a vibrant blend of style, generosity, and connection. He left every place brighter than it was when he found it. A true people person, Daniel lit up every room he entered. At the National Association of Realtors conferences, his style and charm impressed everyone, from the Property Brothers to General Colin Powell. Music was another thread woven through his life. As a boy, he lived near the church of Aretha Franklin’s father and sometimes sat beside Aretha herself as she played the piano. Years later, he was spotted in the third row with family at her funeral – a testament to his uncanny ability to connect with anyone and get into any venue. Daniel was preceded in death by his father, Richard Oscar Thomas, his mother, Annette Castleman, his stepfather, George Castleman; his sister, Kay McGilary, his brother Emanuel Lang, and his beloved niece Peanut. He leaves to cherish his memory his loving daughter, Chatina Danielle Stallworth; his devoted fiancée, Wanda R. Williams; his brothers, Richard Oscar Thomas and Duane Kevin McGilary, his sister-in-law Sadeau Cureton-McGilary, special nephew Richard Blackwell; and a host of nieces and nephews whom he adored. The family wishes to thank doctors and staff at the Hospice of Lansing Stoneleigh Residence, Sparrow U of M Hospital for their care, and our special friends Marcus Jefferson, Estelle Morton, Mark Canady, and Dana Nicholson, who showed love by visiting Daniel often, trimming his nails, bringing him the food he loved, and giving him massages.

Mr. Daniel Will Eugene Thomas

January 27, 1957 - August 3, 2025