Gary Odell Daniel, 69, of Abilene died Thursday, September 15, 2022, in an Abilene nursing center. A celebration of life will be held at 12:30 p.m. Saturday, October 15, 2022, at the family's house, contact them for location. Arrangements by Bailey Howard Funeral Home of Clyde.

Gary was born August 10, 1953, in San Jose, California to Troy Odell and Jessie Lee (King) Daniel. He graduated from Odessa High School. He received his undergraduate degree from Texas Tech University and his master's degree from Abilene Christian University. Gary started his 28-year career at Roby High School as an agricultural teacher, later becoming principal.

He loved farming, ranching and especially Beefmaster Cattle. The real loves of his life were his girls. They were his life. He never missed an opportunity to brag about them. He loved them more than anything and was incredibly proud of them both.

He is survived by two daughters, Autumn Daniel of Norfolk, Virginia and Alison Daniel of Abilene; sister, Janet Barnes and husband Andy of Arizona; grandson, Troy Daniel of Abilene and his former wife and friend, Kathie Mancine of Abilene.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Don Daniel.

In lieu of flowers the family suggests donations in Gary's memory to Hendrick Home for Children, PO Box 5195, Abilene, Texas 79608 or www.hendrickhome.org