of Little Rock, AR
May 23, 1936 - December 1, 2020
Jerry Calvin Daniel passed away peacefully at his residence in Little Rock on December 1, 2020. He was 84 years old. The family would like to thank his caregivers at Avenir Memory Care and Arkansas Hospice for the support and love that they extended to him over the last several years, and especially the days leading up to his death.
Jerry was born to Milford and Margaret Daniel on May 23, 1936, in Prescott, Arkansas. He graduated from Prescott High School in 1954, Southern State College (now Southern Arkansas University) in 1958, and went on complete both a Master's and a EdD at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville. He was preceded in death by his parents, his younger brother Robert Daniel, and his beloved wife of 59 years, Frankie Burnham Daniel.
He is survived by his two children, Meg Hayes (James) of Little Rock, and David Daniel (Chirstiann) of Overland Park, KS. He was the proud grandfather of Calvin McCluskey, Gracie Daniel, Annie McCluskey, Christopher Daniel, and Sydney Hayes. He had one surviving sibling, Mike Daniel (Janet) of Port Aransas, Texas. He also leaves behind a host of grieving cousins and friends who loved him dearly.
Jerry was an avid sports fan and gifted athlete. He was the running back for his high school team, the Prescott Curley Wolves, and afterwards for the SAU Muleriders. While in college, he met Frankie, who was, by her account, determined to marry him. As Frankie was known to do, she succeeded, and the two of them married in 1958. Jerry's outrage at paying 50 cents for a BLT on their honeymoon set the tone for what would be a long, happy, albeit frugal, marriage.
Jerry started his career as a coach and teacher at Cullendale, Arkansas, then as football coach at Camden-Fairview. He decided he wanted to be a school administrator, so while working his way through school, he and his young family moved around the state. Temporary jobs took them to Stamps, Prairie Grove, Arkadelphia, and finally Fayetteville, where he finished his degree in 1973. Post graduation, he was hired as Assistant superintendent of Camden Schools, and that is where the family planted its roots until 1997.
In Camden, Jerry was well-loved by the community, both professionally and personally. He was an active member of First United Methodist Church. He taught Sunday School and spoke occasionally as a lay minister. He and Frankie accompanied the church youth group on many a trip to Colorado and Florida, and had the rare gift of not embarrassing either of his children. He was a master at driving the church bus over dangerous mountain passages, which in retrospect was probably not a good idea.
He was member of the local Lion's Club and served on the American Cancer Society board for Ouachita County. He spent decades perfecting his golf game, which was sadly not a goal he achieved. But in 1992 he discovered his true talent: retirement. As his brother Mike said ''My brother is my retirement role model.'' Jerry reaped the fruits of his frugality and he and Frankie began traveling. They took 3 trips to Europe and countless cruises and spontaneous road trips. They attended plays and musicals, volunteered at the Clinton Presidential Center, and doted over their grandchildren. They attended every recital, soccer game, school Grandparents' Day, and Holiday concert that came along.
Jerry is remembered for his wit, his ability to tell a story, his sincerity, his empathy, his love of children and education, and of course his handsome smile. He was a model father, stern but not strict; he was loving and kind. He was a proud grandfather who would move heaven and earth for his grandchildren.
He was a two-time cancer survivor, which proved that he was needed here on Earth. Those who knew him certainly benefitted from his existence. Jerry Calvin Daniel was the kind of person we should all strive to be, a kind, gentle soul.
Jerry will be interred at St James United Methodist Church in the columbarium, next to Frankie. Due to Covid, there will be no formal service. The immediate family will gather for the interment. A celebration of his life will be planned for later in 2021. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Arkansas Alzheimer's or the charity of your choice.
A service will be planned for a later date, due to Covid-19.
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19 Condolence(s)
Janelle Evyan
Tuesday, January 19, 2021
Mr. Daniel was the epitome of what every man should be, a devoted and loving husband, father, and grandfather. I admire him so much for raising one of my best friends to be an amazing person.
Mr. Daniel has a beautiful soul that will be peaceful now that he is reunited with his beloved wife. The family is in my thoughts and prayers.
David Rogers
Friday, December 11, 2020
Jerry was my first cousin. He was older than I was, and I always looked up to him. I admired his ability at sports, especially American football. I have fond memories of watching him at Mulerider stadium. When we were both older I admired him for his commitment to education, his wit and his relationship with my father, who saw Jerry more as a younger brother than a nephew. Jerry was a true professional and a kind, kind man, a devoted husband and father. I did not see Jerry often after I moved first to NJ and then to the U.K. Yet I will miss his presence in the world. He lived a good life. He was a very good man.
Ann Reamey McCraw
Tuesday, December 8, 2020
I saw your dad’s photo in the obits and recognized him immediately—even though I hadn’t seen him since I was in 8th grade at L.M. Goza Jr. High School in Arkadelphia! He was always Mr. Daniel to me! As a student, I was immediately taken by his incredibly warm and genuine smile—a new experience for me from a principal! (I had been afraid of my elementary principal’s stern countenance!) My dad worked for Reynolds Aluminum and we moved to Alabama before my 9th grade year, and I lost track of your dad then, sadly. I remember the day he said he wanted to talk to me, and I worried some until we met. (Even if you haven’t been in trouble, you figure you must have been if the principal wants to see you!) He quickly put my fears to rest when he asked me to babysit his adorable little girl; I was so thrilled and honored that he would trust me! I’m sad I didn’t know he lived in Little Rock as I would have loved to visit him. I know you will miss him terribly, but am so very thankful you had such wonderful parents. May God fill you with His love and comfort and peace as you adjust and grieve.
Carol Gates Neal
Sunday, December 6, 2020
Meg-
I always thought a lot of your dad. Prayers for your family.
Barbara Bennett
Sunday, December 6, 2020
I so enjoyed working with both of your parents at Camden. They were great together and with others. I know you will miss them. Prayers for your family
Mindy Pradaxay
Saturday, December 5, 2020
Your family is in our thoughts and prayers. I know just how hard this has been especially these past two years. I hope the thought of your parents together once again gives you comfort and peace.
Peter Hammonds
Saturday, December 5, 2020
Jerry Daniel will be missed...The Hammonds' family wish to pass on our condolences to Meg and David and their families...
I can still picture Jerry sitting in a chair with his legs crossed holding a glass of ice tea at Big Daddy's farm. My mother, Aunt Bernice (Bunny) to Jerry, would start his slow southern explanation of some matter the two of them were discussing and then I'd hear my mother laugh. Jerry always had a slow southern presentation with his words, and it warmed my mother's heart to hear him talk...
Cherishing the life of old and missing the people that made it a joy...
Melanie Girard
Saturday, December 5, 2020
David and Christiann,
I am so sorry for your loss. Jerry was a fine man and wonderful school administrator. His calmness made others feel comfortable when approaching him with a question or problem. May God give you comfort in the days and weeks ahead.
Melanie Girard
Melanie Girard
Saturday, December 5, 2020
David and Christiann and family,
I am so sorry for your loss. Jerry was truly a fine man and wonderful administrator of Camden schools. He was an encourager and projected a calmness that made people feel comfortable when approaching him with a question or problem. May God bring you comfort in the days ahead.
Melanie Girard
Carrie Dell Davis
Saturday, December 5, 2020
Such a loving tribute to a life well - lived and the legacy he leaves behind. My heart goes out to his family and friends.
Jerry and Ann West
Saturday, December 5, 2020
Jerry and I are so sorry for your loss. Thoughts and prayers for all of you.
Christa Lawrence-Masters
Saturday, December 5, 2020
Meg and family,
I am so very sorry you have lost your dad and grandfather. I know you will miss him so much and pray you will find peace and strength in the coming days. Much love~ Christa
Nancy Schultheis
Friday, December 4, 2020
Your Dad was truly a Southern gentleman. Loved seeing him when we were in their home. Your Mom and Dad both adored each other. I will always have fond memories of two lovely , kind people!!!
Victoria Patrick
Friday, December 4, 2020
He gave you wonderful memories â¤ï¸
Jim Hogg
Friday, December 4, 2020
Meg and David,
I was so saddened to hear about Jerry! He was a well respected man and father! It’s always heartbreaking to lose anyone, but when it’s a dad or mom, it is especially sad. May the Good Lord engulf and your family with his peace and may your father be greeted by angels as they sing him into heaven!
Jeanette Pratt
Friday, December 4, 2020
One of the finest men I’ve ever known. He made the town of Camden a better place. Prayers for you, David and all of his loved ones. Love, Jeanette and Jamie
Roxanne Newman
Friday, December 4, 2020
Jerry will be truly missed. He was always kind and welcoming. I appreciated his moral support during our time of need after Katrina and had true affection for him. Wishing you all love and strength during this time.
Bonnie Wiley
Friday, December 4, 2020
I will remember his smile - and his laugh, but most of all his encouragement to me as a fledgling teacher at his school.
Susan Robbins
Friday, December 4, 2020
Dear Meg and family,
What a wonderful life well lived!
I am so very sorry for the loss of your beloved father. May his memory be a blessing.
Love, Susan Robbins