Donald Paul Daniels

Ever early, he must have had a heavenly appointment set for 5:30 p.m., because Donald Paul Daniels passed away at 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 13, 2025.

Born on April 4th, 1948, in Nashville, TN to Beulah and Arnold Daniels, Sr., he was fourth in a line of six siblings. Dependability, punctuality, honesty, and stability—he kept these constants like a personal rulebook, even when some of his siblings didn’t—and these were the qualities that defined Paul. He felt fortunate to be able to help, provide, teach, and love them when they may have been unable to do these things for themselves.

He joined the navy sometime around 1966 and did two tours during the Vietnam conflict. His electrical work on those aircraft carriers not only served his country but also carried over to his civilian life. After being honorably discharged, he represented BellSouth and AT&T, working on telephone systems for hospitals, hotels, office complexes, and other businesses across the Southeast. His work was most concentrated in Chattanooga, Atlanta, and Nashville. In the mid-1990s he decided to try his hand at being his own boss and started The T. M. (which stood for Telephone Man) Company, which he operated successfully until his retirement.

He married Bonnie Keesee Daniels in 1980, and they had their only child, Rachel Marie, in April of 1982. Although their official union was not lifelong, they remained friendly—and occasionally amused each other—through the years.

1985 was a year of monumental life changes for Paul. His decision to live a sober life was made during this year and it is one he rode out until the very end. He spent several years both attending and leading AA meetings and was responsible for helping many people turn sober corners and make huge positive changes in their own lives. Rumor has it he was never late for a meeting, ever.

Ever a music fan, he devoted countless hours to his vast record collection—collecting, sorting, and above all, listening. His favorite was rock and roll music released in the 1960’s and 70’s and he could beat almost anyone, except maybe his lifelong friend Dave Walton, at quickly identifying a song and an artist within just the first few notes.

He is predeceased by both parents and all siblings. He is survived by his daughter Rachel, niece April Lance and friends Roger McClean, Dave Walton, and Arley Walton.

Visitation will be held at Harpeth Hills Funeral Home, 9090 Highway 100, Nashville, TN 37221 from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Monday, December 22, 2025. As a longtime rescuer of animals and lover of dogs, Paul would have preferred that, in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to Old Friends Senior Dog Sanctuary, located at 765 Nanaville Rd, Mt. Juliet, TN 37122 or https://ofsds.org/