Phillip J. McDaniel, Ed.D. 81, of Wilfred, IN passed away peacefully surrounded by family in his home on May 23rd, 2020. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, educator, and community servant. He was born in Hymera, IN, on February 15, 1939 to Melvin McDaniel and Fonda (Powell) McDaniel. Phil grew up in Wilfred, IN, graduated from Hymera High School, had a successful career as an educational leader, and returned to Wilfred, IN in retirement. Phil was on the storied 1956 Hymera High School basketball team that won the only section title in the history of Hymera High School.
Phil received his bachelor’s and master’s degree from Indiana State University and his doctorate in educational leadership from Indiana University. Phil’s career spanned 43 years as a teacher, principal, and superintendent across Indiana, Wisconsin, and South Carolina. While a superintendent at Washington Township MSD in Indianapolis, IN, he was bestowed the State of Indiana’s highest honor, The Sagamore of the Wabash from Governor Evan Bayh in 1993. As a superintendent in Rock Hill South Carolina, he was also bestowed the State of South Carolina’s highest honor, The Order of the Silver Crescent in 2002.
Phil is survived by his loving wife Deanna (Daugherty) McDaniel of 58 years, sister Nancy (McDaniel) May husband Charles, brother Terry McDaniel wife Linda. Four children include son Phillip McDaniel Jr. wife Maryann, son Brad McDaniel wife Annette, daughter Karen (McDaniel) Ban husband Eric, and son Ryan McDaniel wife Jennifer. Eight grandchildren include Oscar, Briana, Maria, Brick, Hannah, Natalie, Mahan, and Kaitlyn. The greatest joy of Phillip’s life was to gather with family at the McDaniel homestead in Wilfred, IN established in 1909 where he passed peacefully with his wife and children present.
Services will be 11:00 a.m. Saturday May 30, 2020 at the Sullivan First United Methodist Church, with Rev. Lance Newton officiating. Burial will be at Oak Grove Cemetery in Wilfred. The Family suggest that if friends so desire memorial contribution may be made to the Church at 107 N Court Sullivan IN. 47882, or the charity of their choice. Holmes Memorial has been entrusted with arrangements.
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