'A Constant Source Of Encouragement': Cherry Hill Principal, 45, Dies Unexpectedly

CHERRY HILL, NJ — LaVonda Daniels, a Cherry Hill school principal known for her compassion and commitment to students, died unexpectedly on April 27. A cause of death was not disclosed.

Daniels, 45, joined the Cherry Hill School District two years ago, when she became principal of Joyce Kilmer Elementary School.

"Mrs. Daniels was more than just a leader at Kilmer," the school's PTA said on social media, "she was a constant source of encouragement, kindness, and strength for our entire school community. She greeted every student with a smile, celebrated every achievement, and stood with families through every challenge."

Born in Louisville, Kentucky, Daniels earned her bachelor of arts from Howard University. Over the years, she earned three master's degrees. And at the time of her death, she was pursuing a doctorate in educational leadership from Gwynedd Mercy University, according to her obituary.

In 2006, Daniels began teaching at Highland Elementary School in Abington, Pennsylvania. As the sponsor of Highland's Service Learning program, Daniels founded the school's Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Annual Day of Service, which provided donations and care packages to children and families.

Daniels was promoted to elementary curriculum specialist at a different Abington school in 2017. Two years later, she became assistant principal at Abington Junior and Senior High Schools.

Following a two-year stint as principal of W.H Davis Elementary School in Southampton, Pennsylvania, Daniels became Joyce Kilmer's principal.

"Her legacy of leadership, compassion, and commitment to students will not be forgotten," Cherry Hill Superintendent Dr. Kwame Morton said in a letter to the district community.

Outside of her career, Daniels loved spending time with her family and traveling, especially on trips to her hometown of Louisville.

"Her warmth, wisdom, and unwavering dedication touched the lives of countless students, colleagues, friends, and loved ones," her obituary says.

A GoFundMe established to support Daniels's family and honor her legacy has raised more than $20,000.