Danny Bode, a beloved educator and community member, passed away on May 16, 2025, at the age of 61 in Eastgate. Born on Jan. 17, 1964, in Dayton, Texas, Danny lived his life with purpose and passion, deeply impacting the lives of many through his work in education.
He was a dedicated teacher who imparted knowledge to countless students throughout his career, having taught at Liberty Independent School District, Barbers Hill Independent School District, and ultimately retiring from both Dayton Independent School District and Windham School Districts. Danny’s commitment to education extended beyond the classroom; he also served as an adjunct instructor at Lee College, sharing his enthusiasm for learning with the next generation of educators.
Danny’s educational journey began at Dayton High School, from which he graduated in the class of 1982. He continued his pursuit of knowledge, earning an Associate Degree in Education from Lee College and a Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Lamar University. His dedication to lifelong learning was a testament to his belief in the transformative power of education.
A faithful member of Journey Fellowship Church, Danny was known for his magnetic personality and ability to connect with others. He never met a stranger, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere wherever he went. His passion for history and community service led him to serve as the current president of the Dayton Historical Society and to be an active member of the German Texan Heritage Society.
Danny leaves behind a loving family, including his brothers Donnie Bode and wife Hedi, Rodney Bode and wife Wendy, and sister Wendy Bode Copeland and husband James. He cherished his honorary children, nieces, and nephews, which include Don Allen Bode and wife Lena, Caleigh Bode Turner and husband Cole, Layne Bode, Nikki Parker, Brittany Holcomb, Hillary Copeland, and Alyssa Copeland. Additionally, he was a proud uncle to great nieces and nephews Cooper, Jasper, Jameson, Josee Kate, Scarlett, Calvann, and Kenzie.
Danny was predeceased by his parents, Orvel “Cheyenne” Bode and Linda Oates Bode, who instilled in him the values of hard work, kindness, and community pride.
A visitation in memory of Danny Bode will be held on May 21, 2025, from 5 to 7 p.m., at the Pace-Stancil Funeral Home, located at 1304 N Cleveland St, Dayton, Texas 77535. A funeral service will take place on May 22, 2025, at 10 a.m., at the First Baptist Church, located at 202 East Houston, Dayton, Texas 77535, followed by interment at Magnolia Park Cemetery.
Pallbearers will be Layne Bode, Joseph Alamia, Jeffrey Alamia, Joe Ruesewald, Mark Miller and John Miller. Honorary pallbearers will be Joe Smesny, Frank Smesny, Jim Smesny, Brian Hanel, Joel Grainer, Members of Journey Fellowship Church and the Dayton High School Class of 1982.
In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to the following: Dayton Historical Society 111 W Houston St, Dayton, TX 77535; Journey Fellowship Church 801 S Cleveland St, Dayton, Texas, 77535, or the German-Texan Heritage Society 507 E 10th St., Austin, Texas, 78701.
Danny Bode’s legacy of love, laughter, and dedication to education will forever remain in the hearts of those he touched. He will be dearly missed by his family, friends, and the community he served with unwavering devotion.