“Joel M. Daniel unexpectedly passed away at his home in Tullahoma on March 7th, 2025, at the age of 69.
Joel was born in Tullahoma on February 12th, 1956 to Sheila and Johnny B. Daniel. He graduated from Tullahoma High School and Middle Tennessee State University where he received a Bachelors of Science. While attending the University of Tennessee Space Institute, Joel left his Masters program for what became a 32 year career as a pilot for American Airlines. He would serve 28 of those years as a Captain, safely transporting countless passengers all across the world.
After many years of navigating the skies with great precision, care, and professionalism he spent the last decade enjoying his retirement. Most mornings you might find him sitting on his back deck with a cup of coffee, taking in the serene morning air and watching the birds.
A man of many talents and interests Joel had a passion for the outdoors, cycling, golf, photography, aviation, and various forms of art. There was not a shortage of projects on his workbench, and he never shied away from a challenge or an opportunity to teach himself something new. From fixing things around the house to tinkering with new technologies he was always willing to share his skills and knowledge with those close to him. Throughout his life Joel had a love for all manner of animals and in recent years spent time fostering cats and volunteering at the animal shelter.
He was an outstanding father, providing endless love, guidance and support. Joel and Justin shared many cherished moments and adventures together.
Joel will be remembered by all who knew him as a loving son, father, brother, and friend. He is survived by his mother Sheila, his son Justin, brother Blake (Julie) Daniel, sister Kathy (Bob) Knies, sister Susan (David) Whitby, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. His life was rich with friendships and he shared a special bond with close friend Rosanna Ohlsson.
He is preceded in death by his father Johnny, and his grandparents, Monroe and Elaine Daniel, and Joe and Mildred Smith.
A celebration of life is planned for a future date, details of which will be found at rememberingJoel.com. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to Animal Harbor, 56 Nor-Nan, Winchester, TN 37398.
Anyone willing to share any memories or photos with Joel is encouraged to email them to share@rememberingjoel.com.
He will be dearly missed and live forever in our hearts.”
Moore-Cortner Funeral Home 300 1st Ave NW, Winchester, TN 37398, (931)967-2222
