Richard Thomas Daniel

Richard Thomas Daniel (Rick), 66, of Forest, passed away peacefully on December 9, 2025, at Centra Specialty Hospital with his wife Andrea and sister Jane at his side. He was born in Lynchburg, Virginia, son of the late Floyd Richard Daniel and Mildred Smallwood Daniel.

Rick is survived by his beloved wife of 37 years, Andrea Hall Daniel, his sisters, Janet East (Eddie) and Jane Clay (Phillip), numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins, and his mother-in-law, Dorothy and her partner, Michael.

Rick found his love and talent for playing the trumpet at Hurt Elementary School, when he first joined the band. His dedication and skill earned him the prestigious John Philip Sousa Award. He continued to improve his musical talent throughout Gretna Middle School and Gretna High School, playing in both the concert band and marching band. In his adult years, Rick enjoyed being a member of several groups and bands, and two community orchestras, continuing to pursue his lifelong passion for music.

Everyone who knew Rick very well knew that he loved cooking and excelled at it. Both his family and Andrea’s would often request his homemade cheesecake for family gatherings.

During their life together, Rick and Andrea shared their home with a continuous collection of rescued feline companions, all dearly loved and treasured by them both. To help carry on Rick’s devotion to cats, in lieu of flowers contributions may be made to Bedford Cares Trap-Neuter-Return at www.bedfordcarestnr.org.

The family wishes to thank the staff at Pearson Cancer Center and offers extra thanks to the nurses and aides at Centra Specialty Hospital for their compassion and devoted care of Rick in his final weeks.

No service will be held at this time.