Steve Daniels — a longtime Westport resident, who with his wife helped found TEAM Westport, and was an active volunteer in many causes — died peacefully at Stamford Hospital. He was 86.
The Philadelphia native earned a soccer scholarship to the University of Pittsburgh, and graduated with a degree in business. He was president of Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity, and captained the soccer team.
He and his wife, realtor Cheryl Scott-Daniels, dedicated themselves to their family and community.
Steve Daniels
Steve served as a mentor to youth; was board chair of the United Way and president of A Better Chance of Westport, and was an active member of TEAM Westport, the town’s multicultural commission.
A passionate advocate for senior housing, he co-chaired the Baron’s South project, championing dignity and opportunity for older residents Steve was honored by the Department of Human Services for his long service and commitment to improving communities.
His professional career began in the shoe business. He designed high-end footwear, which required extensive work in factories throughout Italy.
He later built a successful career at Trans World Airlines, rising to vice president of reservations and tours. One of his proudest achievements at TWA was helping provide resources to the families of hostages following the hijacking of Flight 847 in the summer of 1985.
After leaving TWA, Steve served as general manager at Oxford Health. He opened their 300,000-square foot White Plains office in 1996.
He later worked alongside his wife at Cheryl Scott-Daniels Realty.
His family says, “Steve was an avid reader, a devoted tennis player, an adventurous skier, and a curious traveler who delighted in exploring the world. Above all, he cherished time spent with friends and family, who knew him for his integrity, warmth, and quiet strength.”
Steve is survived by his wife, Cheryl Scott-Daniels; stepson Stephen Scott (Dalila Wilson-Scott); grandchildren Kayla, Sean and Cameron; sisters-in-law, brother-in-law, and many nieces and nephews.
Steve’s family extends thanks to caregivers and friends who supported Steve with compassion and love. A celebration of his life will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donations in Steve’s name to the Lewy Body Dementia Association.
A class act- rest in peace, Mr. Daniels. My heartfelt sympathy to his loved ones.
It was an honor to serve on the board of A Better Chance of Westport with Steve and Cheryl for a number of years following ABC’s founding. Steve led ABC with passion and commitment during a very formative phase in its history. His winning smile was always a welcome sight. Rest in peace Steve, thinking of Cheryl and their family.
I had the privilege of getting to know Steve Daniels through
ABC of Westport. As a graduate of Boys High School in Philadelphia, he knew what it took to excel in a high school with others who were different than he was. He was a guiding light to the incoming students of ABC of Westport. He supported the
ABC students throughout their time at Staples and even in college. Steve was a kind, compassionate leader.
Joyce Orkand
This is sad news. I worked with Steve on a number of projects. He was always committed to make our town and the lives of those who lived in it better.
I’m sorry to hear Mr. Daniel’s has passed. My condolences to his family. He was a kind gentleman that wanted the best for Westport. RIP Mr. Daniel.
My heartfelt sympathies to Cheryl and his entire family. We were fortunate enough to carry on the legacy of their wonderful home here and are grateful for all that they did to make this special place so memorable. We are all here for but a chapter. His was undoubtedly an exceptional and honorable one that will never be forgotten.
I served on several committees with him. It was an honor to serve with him. He and Cheryl were/are an amazing team.
Our sons played ice hockey so iI met Steve at the rink. Great guy with an upbeat attitude. RIP TAPS🙏🇺🇸
I had the pleasure and privilege of working for Steve early in my career. I learned so much from him, and I’m not at all surprised to hear about his legacy in Westport.
Steve was a wonderful gentleman who did a fantastic job charting the course for ABC.
So sorry to read this sad news.
Condolences to dear Cheryl and family.
Lots of love, Laurie
So sorry to read this sad news.
Condolences to dear Cheryl and family.
Lots of love, Laurie