Donald Michael Daily

Donald Michael Daily, 81, passed away peacefully July 31st at the Golden Moments home in Houston. “Don” was born on September 26th, 1931 in Houston, Texas. Don lived with and fought a long and mighty battle against Parkinsons disease until it finally won. Don was preceded in death by his wife of 35 years Helen Daily; parents, Harold “Pappy” Wescott Daily and Gladys Louise Daily; and brother, Harold ‘Bud” Wescott Daily II. He is survived by his children, Michael Daily and wife Patti, David Daily and wife Tracy, Pam Daily, Bill Daily, Tonya Daily; grandchildren, Alyson Daily, Kelsey Daily, Tyler Daily, Tiffany Holden, Grace Goodrich and Caleb Goodrich; nephew, Harold ‘Wes” Wescott Daily III; niece, Donna Beth Daily; and numerous other relatives. Don attended Reagan High school in the Houston Heights, where he was a member of the track, swimming and bowling teams. Don married Erna Ruth King in 1952 until 1975, bearing two sons, Mike and David. He attended the University Of Houston and majored in photography. Don proudly served his country by joining the Navy and Army. He was stationed in Japan during the Korean War. Don married Helen, the love of his life and moved to the North Houston, Spring and Tomball areas until his death Don, along with brother Bud began working in the music industry for their father, Pappy Daily, at H.W. Daily Inc./Glad Music Company located in the Heights. He worked all his life in the music industry as a phonograph record distributor, retailer, producer, publisher and all around music business executive. In 1975 Don, along with his brother Bud opened Cactus Records, which became the number one music store in Houston for the better part of 30 years until it finally closed its doors in 2005. Don and brother Bud were instrumental in the launching of the blues rock band ZZ Top. In 1975 Don became the first to recognize the potential of young country singer named George Strait and recorded his first records ever at Houston recording studios. Don was an avid photographer and photography was his passion his whole life. Don spent his years before the Parkinsons took over, traveling with wife Helen and enjoying life, but still going to his office every day. The Daily family would like to thank all the caregivers who gave their best care to Don over the years along with Pam Daily who also provided many years of care for Don. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to any Parkinsons Disease charity. The Addison family and staff extend our heartfelt condolences to the Daily family in their time of loss.

Donald Michael Daily

July 31, 2013