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Life story

" Dan Wagstaff was born and raised in the close-knit town of Halifax, Virginia, a place that shaped his strong values of community, kindness, and resilience. Nestled among the rolling hills and rural charm of southern Virginia, Halifax was more than a hometown—it was where Dan’s story truly began. He spent his youth surrounded by the warmth of family and neighbors who looked out for one another, instilling in him the principles that would define his life: humility, generosity, and hard work.

It was also in Halifax where Dan met the love of his life, Cheryl, a match that seemed written in the stars. From the very beginning, their bond was deep and undeniable. Their love blossomed into a marriage that would last an incredible 46 years, a testament to their unwavering commitment and devotion. Together, they built a life grounded in faith, laughter, and enduring partnership. Through life’s ups and downs, Dan and Cheryl faced every challenge hand in hand, and their love served as the steady foundation for their growing family.

Dan was a devoted father to three beautiful children: Derrick(Jenna, spouse) Stephanie, and Danielle. He poured his heart into raising them with the same values he was brought up with—loyalty, integrity, and love. Whether it was showing up for school events, guiding them through life decisions, or simply being present as a listening ear, Dan was the kind of father who showed his love not just in words but in action.

Outside of his family life, Dan had several passions that brought him joy. He loved to golf, cherishing both the quiet moments of focus on the course and the camaraderie of friends. But his greatest joy came from watching his son and grandsons play baseball. With pride beaming from the stands, he was a fixture at their games—clapping, cheering, and sometimes coaching from the sidelines. These were the moments that lit up his life.

Dan was known far and wide for his infectious smile—the kind that could brighten a room and lift the spirits of everyone in it. It wasn’t just his smile, though—it was his presence. Dan had a natural ability to make friends wherever he went. Whether he was chatting with someone at a gas station, helping a neighbor, or meeting a stranger for the first time, he left people feeling seen and valued.

He was the kind of man who would give you the shirt off his back—and often did. His generosity was not performative or occasional; it was who he was. Dan believed in showing up for people, in doing whatever it took to take care of his family, and in giving more than he received. He worked tirelessly not for recognition, but because he wanted his loved ones to have a better life.

Dan’s life was made all the more rich by the arrival of seven beloved grandchildren(Dillon, Tanner, Harper, Landon, Chase, Parker, Carter), who became the light of his later years. From bedtime stories to baseball practice, holiday gatherings to spontaneous hugs, his grandchildren were truly his pride and joy. He celebrated their milestones, nurtured their dreams, and left them with memories and lessons they’ll carry forever.

To the very final breath of his life, Dan loved his family deeply and completely. His legacy is not just in the years he lived, but in the way he lived them—with warmth, courage, humor, and a heart wide open. The world was made better by his presence, and his memory will live on in all who knew and loved him. "