Archie Roland McDaniel

In Loving Memory of Archie Roland McDaniel

Archie Roland McDaniel, age 76, of Cleveland, Tennessee, went home to be with His Maker during the early morning hours of June 16, 2026.

Archie was born on April 3, 1950, in Anniston, Alabama, to the late Dr. Roland McDaniel and Betty McDaniel. He was also preceded in death by his younger brother, Clark McDaniel.

A man whose life was defined by service, commitment, and love, Archie proudly dedicated 39 years to military service. Drafted into the United States Air Force during the Vietnam era, he answered the call of duty with honor and went on to serve an additional 35 years in the Army National Guard, retiring as a Master Sergeant (E-8). A two-war veteran, Archie exemplified courage, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication to his country. Even after retirement, his commitment to fellow service members continued through 12 years of service with the Honor Guard, where he paid tribute to veterans and their families with dignity and respect.

Beyond his military career, Archie was a beloved educator and coach who impacted countless lives as a middle school math teacher and wrestling coach. He was a mentor, role model, and source of encouragement to generations of students. Known for his intelligence, patience, and willingness to help others, he believed in leading by example and teaching lessons that extended far beyond the classroom.

To those who knew him best, Archie was much more than a soldier and teacher. He was a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, cherished son, brother, uncle, and loyal friend. He shared 40 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Fay McDaniel, building a life rooted in faith, family, and devotion.

To his loved ones, Archie was a hero in every sense of the word. He was dependable, hardworking, and endlessly resourceful; someone who could fix nearly anything, solve almost any problem, and always be counted on when needed. His love was steadfast, his loyalty unwavering, and his presence a source of comfort and strength.

In retirement, Archie found joy in the simple pleasures of life. A devoted fan of the Alabama Crimson Tide and the Atlanta Falcons, he rarely missed an opportunity to watch a game. Above all else, he treasured time with family, especially the girls he adored so deeply. They loved him just as fiercely in return.

Archie is survived by his loving wife, Fay McDaniel; his daughters, Michelle Croomes (Wesley Miller) and Marie McDaniel (Daryan Sullivan); his son, Matthew Ellis; and his treasured granddaughter, Brilee Croomes, who brought immeasurable joy to his life. He also leaves behind numerous extended family members, friends, former students, fellow veterans, and community members who were blessed to know him.

His family finds comfort in knowing that his service is complete, his burdens are laid down, and he is finally at peace.

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." - 2 Timothy 4:7

The family will receive friends from 6:00 pm til 8:00 pm on June 22, 2026, as well as 10:00 am til 11:00 am on June 23, 2026 at Companion Funeral Home located at 2412 Georgetown Road, Cleveland, TN 37311. A Celebration of Life Service will begin at 11:00 am with Pastor Guinn Green officiating. 

You are invited to share a personal memory of Archie or your condolences with his family at his online memorial located at www.companionfunerals.com. Companion Funeral & Cremation Service Cleveland Chapel and the Cody family are honored to assist the McDaniel family with these arrangements.