Arnold Daniels, Jr.
February 17, 1949 ~ February 19, 2025
Arnold Daniels, Jr., a distinguished scholar, diplomat, educator, and entrepreneur, passed away on February 19, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of knowledge, leadership, and enduring friendships. Arnold was born in Johnson City, Tennessee, on February 17, 1949, to Arnold and Ophelia Daniels. A memorial service is planned for 10 a.m. Saturday, March 1, 2025, at the African American Museum of Iowa, 55 12th Avenue SE, Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Per Arnold's wishes, he was cremated, and his remains will be buried with his parents at Fort Lincoln Cemetery, Brentwood, Maryland. Arrangements are with Stewart Baxter Funeral & Memorial Services, Cedar Rapids
Known for his beaming smile and remarkable ability to connect with people, Arnold's life was one of service, passion, and unwavering dedication. He was also proud of his more than forty years of sobriety and attributes his longevity to his participation with AA, particularly his most recent affiliation with the CR Gratitude Club.
A lifelong scholar, Arnold earned a Bachelor of Arts in English from Canisius College and a Master of Arts in Cultural Anthropology from Columbia University, where he also completed all coursework for his Ph.D. His academic career spanned decades, educating and mentoring thousands across prestigious institutions, including Columbia University and NYU.
Beyond academia, Arnold served as an International Visitor Liaison with the U.S. Department of State, directing over 150 diplomatic delegations. His expertise in cultural and political landscapes made him a valued figure in international relations. As an entrepreneur, he led multiple businesses, including Cope Daniels, Inc. and Affordable Transportation LLC, the business he founded after moving to Cedar Rapids.
Deeply committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, Arnold championed social justice through organizations like the NAACP, the Iowa State Archaeological Commission, and the Alliance for the Mentally Ill. More than his credentials, Arnold will be remembered for his warmth, generosity, and ability to turn acquaintances into lifelong friends. Arnold's impact will live on in those he mentored and the lives he touched, which serve as a testament to a life well-lived and well-loved.
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We are deeply sorry for your loss ~ Stewart Baxter Funeral & Memorial Services – Cedar Rapids
Honoring Arnold“Dan, Danny” Daniels,Jr.
In 1967, Danny & I were the first two African-Americans to attend Canisus University from Washington DC. This was a big deal because Danny was a visionary, who would change Canisius for the next 50 plus years through his tenacious support for persons of color and women. He was a founder of the African-American Society, which increased minority enrollment from six to one hundred eighty students, while providing infrastructure support for students and members of the community. Danny was a soft spoken and brilliant advocate. He was so loved by his classmates and everyone he encountered. I had the honor of speaking with him a week before he transitioned and the dignity and magnificence in his beautiful voice still resonates. Danny said he “was ready” and “at peace”…I whispered to Danny, “we love you”…thank you, thank you, thank you Danny.
(Bob Maloney Canisius University’67-71)
Arnold was my wife’s cousin and a dear friend to my wife and I and our children. He was real gentleman who always displayed wisdom and refinement. He was very kind and it was a privilege to have known him.
I met Arnold when he came into my jewelry store. His soft-spoken and engaging approach to communication was welcoming, disarming and effective. I often looked forward to his visits and our discussions on many subjects beyond jewelry.
God bless Arnold.
Steve Ginsberg
Cousin Dan, May You Rest in Heavenly Peace. May God Bless You. Love Susanne, Vicki, Gregory and Paul.
Arnold was truly a special person. I’m very thankful I got to know him during his time in Cedar Rapids. He will be missed. Condolences to the family.
Arnold, you were a valued member of NAACP Cedar Rapids for many years and will be missed! – Your Friends at NAACP Cedar Rapids
Dan and I were on the same line in 1976 pledging Omega Psi Phi Fraternity. We’ve been dear friends during his studies at Columbia University and my studies at New York University during the 1970s. He will be missed. Thanks Brother Dan. Although I met his mother and father during their residency in Washington, DC, I don’t know other family members or friends. Please feel free to contact me at (646) 281-2427 or mitchdavie@gmail.com. Love eternally, Mitchell L Davie. Thank you.
I was one of Arnold’s teachers during his anthropology graduate studies in the 1970s at New York University. (He later continued his studies at Columbia.) At least twice annually we would speak about his work with the International Visitors at the Department of State, DC mayoral candidate and, since 2016 a full participant in the civic life of Cedar Rapids and Iowa. Patient, generous, and resourceful, sharing with family, friends, and everyone whose lives he touched was essential to Arnold. Dale F. Eickelman, Hanover NH.