Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Add a Memory
Make a Donation
Mel McDaniel Obituary
Memories and Condolences
for Mel McDaniel
109 Entries
Ryan
July 7, 2025
I was. A. Big fan. Of. His. I. Do. Miss. You. Him. From. Ryan. Caricofe. From. Orrville. Ohio
Brenda
May 15, 2025
I loved his music
Judith S.
April 9, 2025
I met Mel McDaniel and his wife Peggy in Nashville at the Grand Ole Opry in 2006. Both of them were great, down to earth people. I miss them.
Louise Wyman Davis
September 5, 2024
Mel and I dated in high school and I got to sit at the girlfriend´s table at the gigs they played. He was more like the blonde Elvis at the time but found his country niche soon. The next time I saw him after his career took off was at Mel McDaniel Day in Okmulgee Ok. We hung out after and got a tour of his new tour bus. Then years later he was headlining at Billy Bobs Texas and invited me backstage. I always knew he´d go far with that load of talent he possessed. And a fine human being to boot!
Louise Wyman Davis
Ann Thomason
February 2, 2024
My deepest condolences
Warren
January 31, 2024
I apologize for my lateness. I was watching Mel on one of Mr. Black's shows and thought I should add something.
Mel had a seriously rocky road to travel on his way to the "Opry." I shared some of that with him in Alaska. We fished together, I laughed at his ET impression numerous times and listened to his dreams. He was a singular individual I admired much. A bunch of us at the King's X, a cop bar in Anchorage, where he performed contributed to his expenses when he decided to give Nashville another chance.
I last saw him over breakfast after his show in Anchorage quite a few years ago. We shared stories and how we were handling life. After that we shared rare emails and swapped a few pictures.
He overcame a lot, some of it he brought on himself. most was just the vagaries of life which we all experience. But, his friendship was dear to me and I miss him. And, I feel better for having shared this eleven years or so late.
RIP buddy!
Steven Boyle
November 14, 2023
I met Mel back in 1991 at a truck stop where I ran smack-dab into him in the c-store. We both apologized at the same time & I knew he was famous & he says "I´m Mel McDaniel, nice to meet´cha" He let me take pictures of my truck beside his "Stand on It!" Tour bus. Super nice guy, I´m going to go listen to some of his stuff right now.
TRISHA CHAFFIN
February 15, 2022
Remember you fondly from The Kings X in Anchorage, Alaska. My friends and I enjoyed many evenings listening to both you & Lucky Long there. I still have your albums. You will long be remembered. "Roll your Own", Mel.
Wanda Cleveland
July 17, 2021
He came in to Hanford California he met with me and my parents Bobbie & Bill Cobine were the guards at venue we were able to go into his space my parents spent time in his motor coach and had invited them to his place they exchanged phone numbers. My father died in 2005 and mom died in 2010. I don't remember if they were ever met up with him. He sign a shirt for me. He was a delight to spend time with love his music. I have several picture of him and my daughter together. Great memory's Rest in power my sweet man. Your up in haven now with my parents talking about great times. You have been always be missed.
Ann Reeves
May 25, 2021
Mel was an awesome man, and singer. R.I.P. Mel
james moore
March 13, 2021
One of the greatest singers of all time I'm a big fan and I know his music will live on rest in peace my friend and I opened for him at our local Oakland opry one of the best
Billy
March 12, 2021
Sew sorry so sad
He a good singer
a 12 year old boy named Waylon sadly wasn't his friend...
November 13, 2020
hes got some great music and he will be and has been remembered
Waltersmith
September 30, 2020
Mel loved all your songs stand up was just great love you always
Peggy McDaniel, Hodge
November 5, 2019
Rest in peace. I hope you will be dancing with the angels. Peggy Sue McDaniel
Laurel Christie
September 24, 2019
My Uncle Loren Dewitt discovered his talent I think. I went to Alaska to visit my Aunt n Uncle and remember Mel working at their bar rge Kings X. He was great. Sorry to hear of his passing...
Dan Electricbanjoman Surber
August 30, 2019
Mel was a great guy & a load of fun, He was great to pick with the couple times I did back in the late 70`s, he was a real blast Miss you Mel
chris husted
December 6, 2018
mel was a great country singer and had a hard life
William Grim
October 31, 2018
All the great ones are gone. Rest in peace.
Rick Hammer
September 29, 2018
OL ' MEL, wish I could have sat at John A's and hung out...I own the beautiful eagle bus that Mel had built. In it is a picture of John Wayne ...
And some personal touches of Mel... What a voice, what a writer, good man. The song goes on brother!
J Madsen
February 13, 2018
Miss you uncle Mel
It's been a long time
Linda Fadon (Andrus)
November 1, 2016
I first met Mel at the Kings X Lounge in Anchorage, Alaska in about 1970. I remember his sound, style, and inviting personality. I used to sit in and sing with him on occasion (when I was in town). We always did "Bridge Over Troubled Water". He was such an amazing singer/entertainer but an even greater human being. Miss you Mel.
Caleb featheroff
May 2, 2016
Mel McDaniel hope your singing stand up in heaven rip
OB Ramsey
September 27, 2015
I guess better late than never. Just now found out he had passed. We had some good times at the Kings X in Anchorage. RIP my friend
angela creekmore
July 10, 2015
seen you in concert with the bellamy bros. in 1990 or 1991 I believe. in Okm ulgee ok. where I was born and raised. Loved your music just now finding out you are gone. r.i.p.
Roxana Higgins
July 31, 2014
When I met you in Holbrook, Az, I was impressed with you. A perfect gentleman. Thank you for that lovely dinner. I loved you so.
May 10, 2013
I will always remember the times we just sat and talked at John A's ..... RIP my friend..... ken pulley
Joann
February 1, 2013
I will miss you Mel I will never forget your concert and being right up to the stage as you sang your songs I have many of your records Thinking of your passing brings tears to my eyes thank you for all the music you gave to us your fans JT
Mike Seabol
July 29, 2012
I just wanted to say Thank You Mel for all the Great music. You we're my favorite country singer. All your music was amazing! So many fun times associated with your songs. So glad I got to meet you after one of your concerts. Heck of a nice guy See you again someday Old Friend.
Toni Martinez
May 9, 2011
My condolences are with all of you family. He is resting in peace and will be sadly missed.
Farewell but never forgotten...
Debbi Church
May 1, 2011
I got to know Mel in the mid to late-70's in Tulsa while working for Preston Cloud at the Cloud Agency - a booking and talent agency. Preston assisted Mel in getting his first record deal with Capitol Records. Loved Mel's music, his easy smile and upbeat attitude. He went on to be very successful with his recording career and member status on the Grand Ole Opry. My sincere condolences to Danielle, all Mel's family and lifelong friends. He was a unique and special artist and I look forward to hearing his final recording. I will never forget ...
Marla Handford
April 23, 2011
Your with all the other greats picken away and singin' them songs...I know your happy and at peace~Loves...Marla Marie Handford
April 21, 2011
I am so glad you did get those Red Cowboy Boots.
Jason Seay
April 19, 2011
Your music has been a part of my life since the days I used to hang around KJIM,and KXOL in Fort Worth as a kid. Just played some old vinyl you gave me back then, and it seems like yesterday. Thanks Doc for producing "The Last Ride". I'll never forget you guys and the REAL country music you played around Cowtown.
Misti King
April 14, 2011
I cant believe you are gone.Im going to miss you so much, you were the best and meant the world to me.Love you
April 14, 2011
Rest in peace my friend .... all of us who knew you will miss your face and voice . The club will never be the same without you ..........
Rick Dayton
April 14, 2011
Mel's music will always be heard worldwide on EMM Radio. I never had the honor/priviledge to meet him, but through his music I knew him to be a great man.
April 13, 2011
Mary,
We are remembering our times with you and Mel when we all lived in Anchorage, AK and we were affiliated with the Air Force (Elmendorf AFB) and then a couple of visits here in Arizona where we live. We loved seeing you both and catching up on "Old Times". We will miss his wonderful smile. We send our prayers to you and all of Mel's family. We are saddened to lose a talented and kind person and pray that Mel is at peace. Blessings on you all.
Robie Robertson Cornell (AF Nurse)Glendale, AZ
Kaye Adkins Ward
Mesa, AZ 85210
April 13, 2011
Will never forget your great music, So glad we got to meet you and spend some time with you. You never turned a fan away. Rest In Peace. Prayers for all the family. Otis and Jean Anderson
PATTIE BLANCHARD
April 12, 2011
YOUR MUSIC WILL GO ON, THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS TO YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS.PATTIE TOMAINO BLANCHARD SIOUX CITY IOWA
wilma shackelford
April 12, 2011
sorry to here about mr mel mcdaniel he was a good country star he will be missed by fans he will always be un heaven with conway twitty'
mr mel he doesent want us to cry hard on him
he us always watching from the sky in heaven
ps wilma shackelford your friend
Diana Payne
April 11, 2011
The angels are having a party in heaven. You were quite the entertainer. Just loved your voice, so strong, and great! Touched a lot of lives Mel. Rest in peace!
Bobbie Schuster
April 11, 2011
Words can not express how much you will be missed. Just know you were loved by so many people and you will never be forgotten.
Doc Holiday
April 10, 2011
Mel McDaniel An inspiration to who ever he came in contact with, I'm glad I lived long enough and stayed in this business long enough to finally be rewarded by having the honor of producing his final career album "THE LAST RIDE" , In all my 50 plus years of producing records, I have never and will never be moved by the human spirt as I was with Mel McDaniel. See You Soon Melvin, Hey we did it!!!! THE LAST RIDE
Paula W
April 8, 2011
Danielle, How sorry we were to hear of your loss. Please know our thoughts and prayers are with you during this time.
Lisa Stoltzner
April 8, 2011
I was Honored to have been able to Meet Mel At Quad Studio while he was doing the making of the Last Ride Album. He was a true Gentleman.
I will always Cherish the day We met. He had a big smile on his face when I first seen him. Our Thoughts go to Mel's Family in this time of sorrow. Mel will Live on throughout all of us. He will be Missed by all.
Judith Newby
April 8, 2011
Dee, Mary and family - though I know there is little anyone can say to ease your pain at this time - I want you to know you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Just when the caterpillar thought life was over, it turned into a butterfly.
With deepest sympathy, Judy
April 8, 2011
Thoughts and prayers will always be with you. We will always have fond memories of the times we spent with Mel. God bless.
Brad Bailey and family
Chris Ashby
April 8, 2011
I went to high school with Mel back in Okmulgee in the 1950s and got got to know him through our common interest in singing. I always liked him and his winning smile. He will be missed.
Chris Ashby
Lewiston, Idaho
shonda and Mel
sharon walker
April 7, 2011
my name is sharon walker i have a handicapped daughter that loved MELS song baby got her blue jeans on and we took her to any show that was in drivin distance of our home we met Mel in 2000 at cookson okla. from then on every show we were at he made her feel so special an i thank him for makin her life so special. LOVE YOU MEL see you and your Mom again someday.
Karen Milstead
April 7, 2011
To the family of Mel:
I am sorry to hear of your loss. God will watch over you and comfort you.
Mary Frances Wright
April 7, 2011
To Mel's family....peace comes in knowing that Mel's voice now sings in the greatest choir ever and the heavenly angels are richer because he is one of them. God bless and be with each of you....Mary Frances Wright, Hermitage, TN
lisa hamilton
April 7, 2011
While the legends physical appearances have sadly gone,
His spirit still remains with us through his songs.
Honour to have met him before he died,
Cherishing forever the "Last Ride"
..............Gone but never forgotten .May he rest in peace.
Jeri Branham
April 7, 2011
We are praying for each of you, I know Mel will be missed. I pray you are comforted in knowing he is with the Lord. God bless you.
April 7, 2011
Another great one gone. We will certainly miss Mel.
Ed McAfoose
April 7, 2011
He will be missed, his music will go on
Kandy Felker
April 7, 2011
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
Debbie McNamara
April 7, 2011
He was a wonderful Man and Entertainer, I really enjoy his Music. I Met him a couple of times in Branson. I send his family my Condolences.
Janice Harris
April 7, 2011
I really don't know exactly where to start but, first of all I want to let Mel's family know that you all are in my prayers at this time. Mel was an amazing singer. I meet Mel years ago and talk to him quite often. I've been back stage at the Opry with him and visited with him on several occasions. Every time I saw him and talked to him he was always the same. I first meet him at a club that I worked at on Broadway here in Nashville. He was at the Ryman that evening and came in the upper bar and stood at the rail at Roberts Western World with his band and they hung around for about 30 minutes. When he walked away to go back to the Ryman he left his walking cane hanging on the rail. When I found it I went to the back door to the Ryman and told the security guard that I had found it and wanted to return it and he refused to let me in, said he would give it to him. So, I said no thank you I will see him when he is finished tonight. So long story short I didn't see him again for a couple of years. I saw him back stage at The Opry and talked to him and I said Mel I have something that belongs to you, and he laughed and made a remark and my friend Pat Hoggard, Mel and myself laughed about it for several minutes. I then told him about the cane. I had a schedule for the show that night and he autographed it. To my friend Janice thanks for hanging on to my cane. Since you have had it for so long just keep it for yourself. Your friend Love ya Mel McDaniels. He took pictures with us and I will never forget him.This really means a lot to me since I am so dedicated to Country Music and I have had this cane for probably 15 years now and will never forget Mel McDaniels. I will always remember Mel's smile and his words of kindness and his respect for Country Music. Hopefully sometime soon I will have a place to hang all the memorbilia of all the Country Music Stars that I have so everyone can enjoy them as much as I do. I will be posting some photos of Mel soon on facebook for all his friends and family to enjoy and share with me.
April 7, 2011
God bless & Rest in Peace
Ricky Lonergan
April 7, 2011
I will always love his music.
April 7, 2011
I was blessed to see and meet Mel many times when he appeared in our area in past years. When my nephew was 9 days old, we took him to his first country show--it was Mel's! And Mel was kind enough to pose with him for a picture. His passing saddens me, but I know he is no longer suffering. My prayers and thoughts are with his friends, family, and many fans.
Linda Boyd
April 7, 2011
My condolences to Mel's family and all who loved him. He will be missed by many. But I, for one, will continue to listen to his music at home and especially in my car. There is nothing like going down the highway with Mel singing "Let It Roll". Love ya...
Janice Pilkington Medlock
April 7, 2011
Condolences to Mel's family. He gave so much sincerity to his music and gave his fans so much to remember. I am a classmate from Okmulgee, Ok and expecially remember when he came home to my 20 year class reunion to entertain. A memory I will not forget.
This is Mel McDaniel performing at the concert following his inducation into the Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame.
Herman Brown
April 6, 2011
Here is a photo I took of Mel McDaniel on the night of his induction into the Okmulgee Music Hall of Fame in Muskogee, OK in 2006.
Herman Brown
April 6, 2011
Herman Brown
April 6, 2011
As the editor of the Okmulgee (OK) Daily Times, it was my 'job' to cover Mel's career over the years. In reality, it was such a blessing to get to meet him and become close friends. He did so many things for people that nobody heard about. We in his hometown will miss this wonderful man and incredible singer. I had the chance to sit and visit one on one with Mel last October when he came home for his 50th class reunion. I will forever treasure those moments I sat and talked with a dear friend. I will miss him personally ... and our town - his town - will be a darker place without him. Thank God (and thank Doc Holiday) his music will live on forever. Lung cancer can not silence this magical voice. RIP, my friend ... and know that you are loved ... and you will be missed in the town that calls you MELVIN ...
Angelia Berryhill
April 6, 2011
My condolences to the family...You are all in my thoughts and prayers...We have lost a great legend and no matter how sick he was he always had a smile on his face but now heaven has gained that special legend and he will live on here with his great music....
Sandra Qualls
April 6, 2011
he will be truely missed!
Peggy Lyon
April 6, 2011
My sincere condolences to Mel's family. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. I worked with Mel in those early days at the "Kings X" in Anchorage. He was a genuine person and a great country singer and will be sadly missed by his country music fans and friends.
Peggyd (Lewis) Lyon
Barb Fabian
April 6, 2011
Ray Price had a hit song "For The Good Times"--that is truly how we will remember "Ol Mel". We thank you for all the special times we shared with you. You will always hold a special place in our hearts. Country music certainly has lost a great entertainer, but I am sure the magic in his entertaining will never cease.
Our prayers go out to his family, special friends and all of his followers. May God's blessing be with you always. We luv ya' "Ol Mel".
Barb, Andy and Judi too.
April 6, 2011
Ray Price had a hit song "For The Good Times"--that is how we will truly remember "Ol Mel". You will alway hold a very special place in our hearts. Country music certainly has lost a great entertainer, but I am sure his entertaining will never cease. Our prayers are being sent to his family members, friends and all followers of Mel. May peace be with you dear friend.
Barb, Andy and Judi too. Smithfield, Pa.
Karen Wallace
April 6, 2011
Danielle, So sorry to hear about your Dad. He is free of his illness now. My thoughts & prayers are with you and your family.
Henrietta Kirby
April 6, 2011
To Mel's Family Mary and Danielle and Joseph and Mike and other family members
I will always remember Mel as my Friend and the hugs and Smiles he always greeting me with and I will always treasured his music and the great times I spent at his Shows and meeting some of you and other Mel friends and Fans. Mel we will missed you but know you're in Heaven and singing with all the Other Opry Stars that were waiting there for you . Thank for sharing the Last Ride with us Ol'Mel. your Friend Ms. Henrietta
Lori Schooler
April 6, 2011
Mel, thank you for a great friendship, the laughs, the tears and all the great memories for the last 2 decades. 'I love and cherish you and always will'.
My condolences to Danielle & Joseph...he loved you so much. Always be proud of your dad...for beyond the entertainer, he was just a man who loved you both dearly.
Cindy Foster
April 6, 2011
Heaven has a new angel! I can't express the impact you had on my life,your music carried me through many dark days! May GOD bless your family with strength and comfort! Love ya Mel!
Tommy Overstreet
April 6, 2011
There are never the right words to say when we lose someone we love, admire and respect. Mel was certainly all three of those to many, many people. I knew Mel personally, we are both Okies and had a common thread of being born in the same state and doing the same work. He was what we in the Music Industry call..."A good and trustworthy man"...plus he had great talent as a singer and songwriter. Mel will be greatly missed by his fans and an industry that sometimes doesn't give the amount of credit deserving for folks like Mel. The words of George Jones great hit echo in my heart and mind..."Who's gonna fill their shoes?"
Tommy Overstreet - 4-6-2011
Mel, you always had a great smile whenever folks would see you. Thanks so much for your encouragement and friendship.
Adolfo Lee Mayo
April 6, 2011
April 6, 2011
Mel McDaniel made it in country music at a time when you needed real
talent. Not just look good in a video. Enjoy your last ride son.
Dan Nelson, Bemus Point, NY
SGT. Dan & Rebecca Scott
April 6, 2011
WE LOVE YOU MEL MCDANIEL!!!! ALWAYS WILL...YOU CARRY OUR LOVE FOR YOU IN HEAVEN AND WE HOLD YOUR MEMORY IN OUR HEARTS HERE ON EARTH!!!
R.I.P. DEAR FRIEND
Donald Wallace
April 5, 2011
Mel, I enjoyed your music, in particular "Old man river" That song always reminded me of home while I was in the Navy ! My sincere condolences to Mel's family friends and fans. May God comfort you with his love as you celebrate Mel's life and memory !
Sherrie Brown
April 5, 2011
He will be missed he was a great singer he was one of the best and again he will be truly missed
April 4, 2011
we lived in hendersonville mel would call johnny to work on his old truck.thought a lot of you .will be missed.johnny&diann bull scottsville ky
Donna Sword
April 4, 2011
Mel has taken his last ride to heaven. May his family remember what a strong and determined man he was. Take comfort that he is now with God and will forever sing in heaven.
Russell Stambaugh
April 3, 2011
Mel was a nice guy my wife and i met him
at one of his shows he had a super personality and was a great talent
he will be greatly missed.
Ron Smith
April 3, 2011
Another giant in country music gone. What a sad day.
Condolences to all friends and loved ones that Mr. McDaniels left here on this earth.
Syndi
April 3, 2011
OMG, what a sad day for family & fans alike. He will be greatly missed by all, but he will stay in our hearts forever! Thoughts & prayers go out to everyone.
Angie Garcia
April 3, 2011
RIP MEL, You know how much Dee and I Love you. You will always be close to our hearts and in our thoughts. heartfelt condolences to your family. WE LOVE YOU AND MISS YOU ALREADY!! May god bless you, he has a new angel
April 3, 2011
Country music has lost another great singer!God comfort Mel's family in their hour of need.
Diane DeWeese,Summer Shade,Ky
Ann Spires
April 3, 2011
We have lost a great singer. My sincere condolences to his family. God bless you all.
melody branch
April 2, 2011
I always liked his music. May favorite was Old man river. Mel will truely be missed. God bless the family.
Melody Branch
El Dorado Arkansas
Wabe Brewer
April 2, 2011
The music world has lost a great songwriter and singer. He has a much more important audience now. Tell Dad I said hello.
Ninalea (mcDaniel) Davis
April 2, 2011
Mel was a greart country singer and I have always wondered if he was any kin to me . My maiden name was McDaniel. I had the pleasure of seeing him in concert once, but had not gotten in to Family tree, then???
Lyla Smithson
April 2, 2011
Mel, you lived across the hall from me and you were a great neighbor and friend. I will always cherish your and Barry's friendship. I will miss seeing you both and your daughters. Hard to believe you are gone but RIP my friend.
Lyla Smithson
Laura Randolph
April 2, 2011
wow, what a shock. I'm young enough to be your daughter, but I always remembered hearing your music when I was a kid. Tell Waylon and Buck howdy!! You will truely be missed in the Country spotlight!!
Showing 1 - 100 of 109 results
Make a Donation
in Mel McDaniel's name
How to support Mel's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Mel McDaniel's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more