Joan Elizabeth McDaniel

Joan Elizabeth McDaniel, aged 65, died of cancer on Sunday, January 23, in the presence of those who loved and cared for her at Walnut Place in Dallas, Texas. She received excellent support through the duration of her illness from Total Hospice and Palliative Care.

Joan McDaniel is predeceased by her parents John M. McDaniel and Billie Jean Chesnut McDaniel of Dallas, Texas.

Joan was born in Houston, Texas, where she attended high school. She lived in Tehran, Iran and London, England during her preschool and elementary school years. She was a lover of sports, excelling in running track and playing softball. Over time she developed a passion for helping others. She had great compassion for those who suffered and who were in need of an advocate. This led her to get a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree at Baylor University and Master of Science in Nursing, with honors, at the University of Texas in Arlington.

Joan began her career as a nurse at Timberlawn Psychiatric Hospital, where she became the Director of Nursing. She then worked as a clinical review analyst and case worker. Her final work was as an insurance case manager at Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital in Dallas.

Joan loved working behind the scenes making sure the needs of the people in her life were met. She was characterized by integrity, efficiency and practicality. She loved knowing that she could help others even if the result was not immediately apparent.

Joan is survived by her sister, Janet McClelland of Forest, Virginia; her brother-in-law, Clive McClelland of Forest, Virginia, her nephew, John McClelland of Maryland; her niece, Mary Thielen of Maryland; and her niece, A. Michelle Waller of North Carolina.

One of the final things Joan wrote in her many “note to self” entries was: “My heart is wide open and ready for eternal unconditional love with Christ our Lord and Savior.”

A favorite verse was found on a note in her Bible which reads, “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:4-7

The Graveside Service will be held at Hillcrest Memorial Park on Saturday, January 29, 2022, at 1:00 pm.