Daniel David Zacharias, 85, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, in Keene, Texas.

Dan was born on September 26, 1940, in DeQueen, Arkansas, and lived a life defined by faith, perseverance, hard work, and deep devotion to his family and community.

Dan was the 10th of 11 siblings and was raised in poverty on a small farm in rural Arkansas, where life was shaped by long days of labor and sacrifice. From a young age, he and his siblings worked tirelessly to help support the family. During his childhood, they missed nearly half of each school year traveling to Oklahoma and West Texas to pick cotton by hand, dragging 100-pound sacks of cotton up and down the rows as kids and teenagers. Those early years instilled in Dan an unshakable work ethic, humility, and resilience—qualities that defined him for the rest of his life.

Seeking to serve his country, Dan left home and joined the United States Army. During his service, he volunteered for a top-secret experimental program known as the Whitecoats, a group of soldiers who participated in critical medical research. As part of this program, Dan was intentionally exposed to serious diseases so that treatments and cures could be developed. The sacrifices made by these men ultimately saved millions of lives worldwide, and they were later formally recognized and honored by Congress and the President of the United States for their extraordinary contributions to medical science and public health.

Following his honorable discharge from the Army, Dan joined his brother in starting a business together. For 35 years, they worked side by side, building the company through relentless effort, integrity, and perseverance. Daniel worked tirelessly to provide for his family, support his church, and give back to the community he loved.

After selling the business, Dan began a second career in real estate, partnering with his son, Gregory. Together they worked for nearly 20 years, not only building a successful venture but also strengthening their bond as father and son. Dan eventually retired, though his steady presence, wisdom, and work ethic never faded.

Above all, Dan was a man of deep and abiding faith. He loved the Lord Jesus Christ with his whole heart and sought to live out that faith daily through service, kindness, and quiet strength. He was a devoted member of his church and a source of encouragement to many. His faith sustained him through life’s hardships and anchored his hope, especially after the loss of his beloved wife.

Dan shared nearly 50 years of marriage with his wife, Ruby “Joyce” Zacharias. Their love was steadfast and enduring, and her passing left a profound void in his life. He spoke of her often and held fast to the promise of being reunited with her in eternity.

Family meant everything to Dan. He was a loving father to his sons and a proud grandfather who found great joy in his grandchildren. He followed their lives closely, celebrated their accomplishments, and prayed faithfully for each of them. He loved telling them about Jesus, attending their birthdays, celebrating holidays and always had an embracing long hug for them that made them know they were truly loved.

Daniel was preceded in death by his father, Dietrich Zacharias; his mother, Stella Zacharias; nine siblings; and his beloved wife, Ruby “Joyce” Zacharias.

He is survived by his sons, Gregory D. Zacharias and his fiancée, Robin Mullen, and Andrew D. Zacharias and his wife, Jamie; and his cherished grandchildren, Maysen, Regan, Morgan, Merrell, and Rielle.

Dan’s life was a testament to faith, sacrifice, and perseverance. From cotton fields to military service, from business ownership to mentorship, he lived humbly, worked relentlessly, and loved deeply. His legacy will live on through his family, his faith, and the countless lives he touched.

Dan will be deeply missed. 

A visitation for family and friends will be held from 6-8:00 p.m., Monday, February 2, 2026 with a private burial on Tuesday, February 3. 

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 7, 2026 at 4:00 p.m. in the Keene Seventh-day Adventist Church, 114 Fairview St., Keene, Texas 76059.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to Chisholm Trail Academy in Daniel's honor at: https://cta.school/donate-2/