DANÉ J. WADDELL (SUSIE), born September 27, 1994, daughter of Bern'Naddette Waddell of Charlotte, NC, and Arthur Simpson (Jacqueline) of Boiling Springs, SC, transitioned from this life on Wednesday, January 7, 2026.

Dané graduated in 2012 from Dorman High School and R.D. Anderson Vocational School, pursuing a career in cosmetology that developed a deep love for fashion and makeup creating her own unique style—an inspiration nurtured by her Aunt Carla. Carla was her rock and anchor.

Not only did she have a remarkable gift for connecting with people, she formed deep connects with animals as well. Dané often adopted pets without her mother's consent—or even her knowledge. Once, she brought home a frog and cared for it for months before her mother found out. She was especially known for bringing stray cats to her grandmother Beverly's home, creating a bond that reflected her caring and nurturing heart.

Dané was compassionate and always willing to uplift and help others. She spent much of her childhood with her grandmother Beverly, and the two were affectionately known as "two peas in a pod." She was also very close to her grandfather Charles and was truly the apple of his eye. She often spoke of the fun she had with her grandmother Laura as well.

Dané shared a special and loving bond with her father, Shawn. He lovingly raised Dané from infancy, ensuring she thrived and learned early — knowing all her colors by the age of two. They shared cherished memories, including attending father-daughter dances and taking long car rides, just the two of them. Shawn will deeply miss her texts, especially the ones that simply said, "Dad," whenever she needed him.

She loved to cook and never hesitated to step into the kitchen to prepare a delicious meal for those she loved. Above all, Dané was incredibly proud of and deeply devoted to her daughter, Gi'Anni, whom she loved beyond measure. She was hopeful and excited about their future together.

Dané leaves to cherish her memory her beloved daughter, Gi'Anni; her grandparents, Gerald and Dot Smith, Beverly J. Waddell (preceded in death), Laura B. and Charles R. Waddell (preceded in death); her siblings, Brandon X. Wright, Keia Clark, Destiny, Mia, Shucore, and Arthur Simpson Jr. (preceded in death); her aunts, Sheina Waddell, Carla Waddell, Thalia Moore, Monique James, Hope Blakely, Marvet Eastland, Chris Norman, and Kim Knuckles; her nephew, Keiondre; her nieces, A'moura and Azariah; her special sisters, Jazz Meadows, Trina, and Kaniyah; along with a host of cousins and friends who truly loved her. Jazz Meadows, Trina, and Kaniyah; along with a host of cousins and friends who truly loved her.