Danny Elliot Marley

Danny Elliot Marley, 74, of Siler City passed away Monday, July 3, 2023 at his home.

Mr. Marley was born in Chatham County on July 12, 1948, to the late Roy Lee and Perry Craft Marley.  Danny was a proud graduate of Jordan Matthews High School, class of 1966.  He then went on to graduate from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 1970, receiving his bachelors in economics.  During his years at UNC, he fell in love with and married the love of his life, Barbara Liles Marley.  He often hitchhiked from Chapel Hill to Greensboro and back for their dates.

Almost one year to the date after getting married, Danny and Barbara welcomed their only daughter, Dianne.  Danny was a good husband and even better father.  He lived a life dedicated to his family and to service of others. 

A lifetime member of First United Methodist Church of Siler City, Danny was active on multiple committees and sang in the choir for the many years Barbara was choir director.  He loved nothing more than listening to Barbara play the piano or organ and shared her love for music.

Early in his career, Danny worked as Plant Manager with Selig furniture company.  He stayed with Selig until they closed and then transitioned to a construction supervisor with a convenience store chain.  This is where he learned about the flag and flagpole business.  He then became an entrepreneur and has worked for the past 30 years as owner/operator of DDB Enterprises. 

Throughout the years, Danny was devoted to his community and was active in the Jaycees and Rotary Club.   He was an avid tennis player and Danny and Barbara were often a fierce doubles team in tournaments at the Siler City Country Club. 

Later in life, he was often found sitting outside reading a good book, usually a western.  He was often known to pick up his granddaughter Breanna early from school just to have lunch with her. He was a proud “Pepa” to all his grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Pepa left a mark on anyone he met. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. While saddened we are happy to know that he is finally reunited with the love of his life, Barbara.

Mr. Marley is survived by his daughter, Dianne Marley Armstrong and husband Michael of Siler City, grandchildren Bryce and Breanna Armstrong, both of Siler City, Amy A. Humphrey of Ft. Bragg, and Lisa A. Hawkes of Maine, and 6 great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held for Mr. Marley on Friday, July 7, 2023 at 1:00pm at First United Methodist Church of Siler City with Rev. William Sabiston officiating.  Inurnment will follow at Chatham Memorial Park.  The family will receive friends following the service in the church fellowship hall and other times at the family home.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to First United Methodist Church, PO Box 212, Siler City, NC 27344.

Online condolences may be made at www.smithbucknerfh.com

Smith & Buckner Funeral Home is serving the Marley family.