BY BELINDA ABELL, SPECIAL TO THE WESTERN KENTUCKY CATHOLIC

At the Whitesville St. Mary of the Woods – St. Vincent de Paul Conference, a remarkable Vincentian continues to demonstrate that a life dedicated to serving others knows no retirement.

At 92 years old, Clara McDaniel has devoted more than four decades to the Society of St. Vincent de Paul. Her service represents her answering Christ’s call to care for neighbors in need through friendship, compassion, and practical assistance. The Society of St. Vincent de Paul, founded in 1833, is a Catholic lay organization founded on person-to-person service, where members, known as Vincentians, grow spiritually by serving those in need.

Throughout the years, McDaniel has witnessed countless changes in the community, yet one thing has remained constant – her unwavering commitment to helping others. Whether visiting families, offering encouragement, working at the thrift store, assisting with food and financial needs, or simply listening with a caring heart, she has embodied the Vincentian spirit of seeing Christ in every person.

McDaniel’s dedication has inspired generations of fellow Vincentians and parishioners. The Vincentians at Whitesville’s St. Mary of the Woods SVdP have shown that true service is not measured by recognition, but by faithfulness, humility, and love put into action day after day.

Even today, McDaniel continues to be a daily active Vincentian. Her wisdom, experience, and gentle example remind everyone that serving others is not just a ministry – it is a lifelong vocation.  

She says, “I joined reluctantly after a fellow Vincentian asked me to. I told her I didn’t have time but finally agreed to a half day. You kind of get addicted to being a Vincentian. We see all kinds of people and I enjoy helping them. I especially enjoy the friendships and camaraderie with my fellow Vincentians. We need more Vincentians, but we don’t need lazy ones – we need caring ones who are willing to work.”

As the St. Mary of the Woods SVdP Conference celebrates this extraordinary milestone, the Conference also celebrates the life that has made an immeasurable difference. McDaniel’s decades of service has touched countless individuals and families, bringing hope, dignity, and the comforting presence of Christ to those facing difficult times.

The members of the St. Mary of the Woods Conference are deeply grateful for Clara McDaniel. Her legacy is one of compassion, perseverance, and unwavering faith. She reminds us all that a caring heart, willing hands, and a lifetime of service can leave an enduring impact on a community.

Belinda Abell is the external affairs director for the Society of St. Vincent de Paul – Diocesan Council of Western Kentucky, Inc.

Originally printed in the September 2026 issue of The Western Kentucky Catholic.