Daniel Lavelle “Danny” Luke, II

March 29, 1957 - May 18, 2026

Surrounded by his loving family, Daniel Lavelle Luke, II, passed away peacefully on Monday May 18, 2026. Danny was born to Daniel Lavelle “D.L.” and Marlene Luke in Troy Alabama on March 29, 1957. He moved to Crestview with his parents and younger brother, Stan, a few short years later. Danny graduated from Crestview High School in 1975 and attended the University of Florida and University of South Alabama before beginning a long career with the Okaloosa County Clerk’s office that commenced with him serving as a supervisor of multiple departments.

Danny first laid eyes on his true love, Debbie Howell, in the sixth grade. He was immediately smitten when saw her walk past an open classroom door and always said he knew at that moment she was the one for him. They began seriously dating at age 17, married in their early 20s, and built a beautiful life together. Danny was a faithful husband and doting father who was able to witness both daughters grow up strong, accept Christ, graduate from college, and begin professional careers of their own. He joyfully danced with Liz at her wedding and lovingly welcomed two beautiful grandchildren into the world with open arms.

In his younger years, Danny spent time working around the house and in the yard. As the girls grew, he helped create core family memories by going on vacations, to campgrounds, to the beach, to band performances, and to sporting events. Danny enjoyed fishing and playing golf with his buddies, too. He loved Florida Gators sports and was always excited to see the Gators play football, whether from the comfort of his recliner, with like-minded fans in The Swamp, or by taking a road trip to a rival SEC team’s stadium. After retirement Danny continued his family-centered focus through activities such as expanding his cooking skills and providing “PawPaw Daycare”. Surrounded by women most of his days, Danny was a proud girl dad, grandfather, and uncle. He never needed to be in the spotlight. He was known for his incredible smile, easy-going personality, and for being patient and kind to many. Things like homemade sweet tea, dogs, the Florida Gators, good music, and pepperoni pizza brought him happiness, but above everything else here on earth, he loved his family and that was where his true joy was found.

Danny was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents, all of whom were long-time residents of Crestview. Danny is survived by the love of his life, Debbie; two daughters Stephanie Luke and Elizabeth Irby (‘son’ Clint); two granddaughters, Olivia and Emma Irby; brother Stanley K. Luke (Alisa); a ‘mother’ Edna Howell; two ‘sisters’ Katherine Sand (Gordon) and Belinda Blalock (Stephen); five nieces, Allyson LaVictoire (Ben), Ashlee VanDyke (Kevin), Haylee Cooper (Jordan), Lexie Macri (Sean), and Maddie Luke. He was also deeply loved by his late father-in-law Charles “Morgan” Howell and niece Amy Sand Reiser.

Because he was a Believer in Christ, Danny is now completely healed, residing in paradise with our Lord. The family would like to send heartfelt thanks to all of the healthcare team members that compassionately cared for Danny. Services will be held at Whitehurst-Powell Funeral home in Crestview on Wednesday May 27th. Visitation will begin at 10:30 followed by a celebration of life memorial service at 11:00.

Arrangements are entrusted to Whitehurst Powell Funeral Home in Crestview. Guest book and condolences are available online at www.whitehurstpowellfuneralhome.com

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